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Mi Tingim

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Mi Tingim - 2

The nation looks to welcoming a new prime minister tomorrow. The three candidates are Peter Shanel Agovaka (MP for Central Guadalcanal), Matthew Wale (MP for Auki Langalanga) and Manasseh Maelanga (MP for East Malaita). Island Sun interviewed members of public in Honiara yesterday to gauge their views. Mi Tingim with John Houanihau

Paul Alick

Paul Alick

“All three candidates are capable leaders, but he believes Peter Shanel Agovaka is best suited for the role. My thoughts about the three candidates are that all of them are good leaders and qualified to lead. However, I think Peter Shanel Agovaka should take up the PM post”.

Robert Ini

Robert Ini

“The country needs the right person to guide Solomon Islands through current challenges. Opposition Leader Matthew Wale could be the right choice because of his outspoken stance on national issues. What if Matthew Wale is elected to become Prime Minister? He is always vocal about issues affecting the country”.

Harry Eno

Harry Eno

“The recent motion of no confidence reflected divisions within government ranks. If Mr Manele realised members of his own camp voted against him, he should now join the opposition side. In our custom, the people close to you are sometimes the ones who betray you. If he joins the new coalition, they can either elect Matthew Wale or Manasseh Malanga for the post”.

Ulpep Deva

Ulpep Deva

“I prefer Matthew Wale. As Opposition Leader have given him experience and understanding of issues affecting ordinary Solomon Islanders. He is well-versed in the issues facing us and always fights for the betterment of this nation”.

Badly advent Lioga

Badly Advent Lioga,

“The three candidates should put differences aside and work together for the good of the country. I think it would be good for the three candidates to come together and decide who should lead the country forward”.

Mirriam Bulengea

Mirriam Bulengea

“Whoever becomes the next Prime Minister must focus more on indigenous people and those living in rural communities. What I want is for the new Prime Minister to recognise the indigenous and grassroots people of Solomon Islands”.

Standley Bade

Standley Bade

“I suggest and supports Peter Shanel Agovaka because I believes the current government’s development plans, especially for Temotu Province, would continue under his leadership. There are still projects to be completed in Temotu Province, and some are still in the planning stage. I believe those plans will continue if Peter Shanel becomes Prime Minister”.

Joylyn Steven

Joylyn Steven

“Why MPs decided to remove Jeremiah Manele. Many ordinary citizens still supported his leadership. I don’t really understand why they no longer want Jeremiah Manele and why the three candidates want to take up the PM chair. For I still prefer Jeremiah Manele”.

Clement Mweabau

Clement Mweabau

“I regularly heard Matthew Wale speaking strongly on national issues during parliamentary debates and believes the Opposition Leader should now have the opportunity to prove himself. Every time I listen to the radio, I hear Matthew Wale speaking against issues affecting the country and trying to direct the government in the right path. If he becomes Prime Minister, then let us see what he can do for the country”.

Photo credit: John Houanihau

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Lobbying & secrecy ahead of tomorrow’s PM election

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BY IRWIN ANGIKI

As the country awaits tomorrow’s prime minister election, both sides are operating under secrecy.

Public are given titbits through social media or coconut wireless on movements of MPs across camps by certain people close to either side.

To date, following the motion on Thursday last week, only the movement of former coalition members, Peter Shanel Agovaka (MP for Central Guadalcanal) and Dr Paul Popora Bosawai (MP for North Guadalcanal) back to the GNUT side has been made public knowledge. This followed a facebook post by Mr Bosawai on Monday this week giving his reasons for nominating GNUT candidate Agovaka.

Bosawai and Agovaka’s movements have allowed public to be aware that the Opposition coalition had fragmented after winning the motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, and after having spent eight weeks together in solidarity.

Thus public deduced that GNUT now has 24 MPs against the coalition’s 25. One MP is overseas for medical reasons and will not be involved in tomorrow’s PM election.

However, following Bosawai’s facebook announcement, rumours continue up to this afternoon of movements between both camps that it is difficult to keep up with.

Media has been kept in the dark due to shut down in transparency in both camps of their lobbying and numerical status. Which is not a new thing in Solomons’ politics before a prime minister election.

Sources within the coalition camp, who spoke to Island Sun under condition of anonymity, claimed that as of early this afternoon they have 26 MPs, with moves underway to bring in more.

The coalition has resumed the name of CARE (Coalition for Accountability, Reform, and Empowerment), Island Sun sources said.

The GNUT camp has not responded to Island Sun’s enquiries.

Leading up to the PM election, of the three candidates, only the anticipated plans and priorities of Mr Agovaka has been made known to public.

Caretaker PM Jeremiah Manele addressing his last press conference yesterday said that Agovaka will continue and complete GNUT’s programmes. A huge list of GNUT’s achievements was announced to the parliament on Thursday last week by Mr Manele during the motion of no-confidence debate. GNUT policies and programmes are already public knowledge, and are being rolled out, and communities across the country are benefiting from them.

Agovaka becoming PM will ensure continuity for GNUT’s mission to “keep the government stable, continue delivering essential services to our rural areas, and ensure our national development commitments are on track and completed” as stated by caretaker PM Manele.

With Mr Wale and Mr Maelanga, it is unknown what they have in mind for Solomon Islands once either one comes into power.

Attempts to get comments from Wale and Maelanga this week were futile.

Meanwhile, the Government House has reminded public of the special restrictions that accompany prime minister elections.

This special restriction is required by the constitution, in which media and public are not allowed inside the parliament chambers while the prime minister election takes place.

However, the restrictions are removed when the Governor General makes the official announcement of the election result at the front of parliament house’s east-side entrance.

As for the PM election results, in Solomon Islands politics, results cannot be predicted with confidence. Nothing is concrete and confirmed until the final ballot result, which will be made known tomorrow.

The devil’s night could change this evening’s tallies. [Devil’s night is the conventional term for the night before the day of election]

Parliament starts at 9.30am tomorrow.

SICF coaching course ends with certificate awards

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BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI

The two-day Solomon Islands Cricket Federation (SICF) Coaching Program 2026 successfully concluded on Tuesday this week at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS), with certificates awarded to athletes and participants who completed the course.

The program brought together athletes and participants for intensive learning and practical training sessions that aim to strengthen cricket development in the country through improved coaching knowledge and skills.

The two-day program focused on strengthening cricket skills, coaching development, and improving athlete performance in the Solomon Islands.

Speaking to Island Sun yesterday, SICF Men’s team captain Carlton Tisa, who attended the coaching training, said the cricket coaching course was very interesting.

“I had learned a lot of knowledge and the rules of cricket from the two-day coaching programme, as I had no knowledge about the sport before,” Carlton Tisa said.

He said the programme covered key areas including cricket fundamentals, bowling, wicket keeping, fielding, coaching and session planning, safeguarding, match preparation, and practical coaching activities aimed at improving players’ knowledge and performance.

“The training concluded with a mini match, evaluation and feedback session, followed by a certificate presentation to all participants,” Tisa said.

 The coaching camp was officially opened by Sajeewa Liyanage on behalf of the Solomon Islands Cricket Federation and facilitated by Saman Madalakanda and consultant Janaka Ranatunga.

Present at the closing of the programme and witnessing the two-day coaching sessions were Philemon Campbell of the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport and SINIS Facilities Operations Manager Muriel Leah Alufo’oa.

Carlton Tisa joined the other participants to thank the Australian Government for supporting the Coaching Program 2026.

He also thanks the National Sports Council, Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport and officials of the Solomon Islands Cricket Federation for the successful delivery of the programme.

Photo credit: NSC

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Veo welcomes Chinese medical team

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Premier of Western Province has welcomed the Chinese Medical Team who touched down in Gizo on Tuesday this week.

The team will be supporting the Western Province Health and Medical team who are currently reaching out to communities affected by the recent severe tropical cyclone.

In his welcome remarks, Billy Veo said the team’s outreach and professional expertise will greatly contribute towards improving the wellbeing of people and strengthening the local health service.

He said Western Province is honoured to welcome the Chinese Medical team to be part of the recovery processes.

“It is with great pleasure and honour that I warmly welcome the visiting medical team from the People’s Republic of China [ PRC] to western province.

“One behalf of the western provincial government, our health authorities, community leaders, and the people of western province, I extend our sincere appreciation for your visit and your commitment to providing medical services, consultations, and support to our people and communities

“Your presence here reflects the spirit of humanitarian cooperation, compassion, and partnership. At a time when many of our communities continue to face health challenges, especially following recent disasters and ongoing service demands, your assistance come as great encouragement to our people,” Veo said.

He said Western Province values the partnership and solidarity demonstrated through the arrangement and beyond the medical services the team will provide, their engagement also promotes knowledge sharing, professional collaboration, and stronger international friendship.

Veo said the visiting medical team will strengthen the workforce given that Western province is geographically dispersed, and access to quality healthcare remains a challenge for many rural communities.

“I would also like to acknowledge our health workers, provincial authorities, partners, and organizers who have worked tirelessly to coordinate this important visit. Your dedication and cooperation are highly appreciated.

“To our honoured guest from the PRC medical team, we hope your time in Western Province will be productive, meaningful and enjoyable,” he said.

Veo encourages the Chinese Medical Team to experience the hospitality, culture, and beauty of Western province while carrying out their important work.

“Once again, welcome to Western Province and thank you for your commitment to serving humanity,” he said.

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International Nurses Day marked in Gizo

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

NURSES and health workers at Gizo Hospital on Tuesday this week took time out from their demanding duties to celebrate International Nurses Day with a series of activities in Gizo.

The celebration began with a parade from Gizo Hospital through Gizo Top-hill and down to PT before participants gathered at the Saint Luke Gizo Anglican Church for the opening devotion.

An official programme followed later in the afternoon at the Western Province Youth Centre where speeches, feasting and traditional dances were performed to commemorate the occasion.

Speaking after the opening devotion, Chairlady of Saint Luke Gizo Anglican Church, Ilene Ziudanga acknowledged the nurses, doctors, practical nurses and supporting staff for choosing the church to host the opening devotion.

She also paid tribute to health and medical workers for their dedicated service to the people of Western Province and the country.

“You are our caregivers and frontliners when it comes to health issues. You help bring lives into the world and at the same time save lives.

“Your passion and sacrifices are truly commendable,” Ziudanga said.

She wished all nurses, doctors and supporting staff in Western Province and throughout the country an enjoyable International Nurses Day celebration.

Director of Nursing, Eddie Kiloe also acknowledged the parish priest and parishioners of Saint Luke for accepting the request to host the opening devotion at the church.

He said nurses, doctors, student nurses and supporting staff were honoured to host part of the celebration programme at the church.

Kiloe also acknowledged his fellow colleagues for making time to take part in the important event on the nursing calendar.

International Nurses Day is celebrated worldwide each year to recognise the commitment and contribution of nurses and healthcare workers in providing quality healthcare services to communities.

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Man accused of domestic violence given strict bail conditions

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court has imposed strict bail conditions on a man accused of committing domestic violence after it heard oral submissions from defence and prosecution yesterday.

The accused, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victim, was charged with one count of domestic violence and physical abuse. He is currently on remand at the Rove Correctional Centre.

The victim in this case is the wife of the accused person.

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia presided over the matter when it came for mention.

Prosecuting counsel Mr Steward Beto told the court that he understands the defence is preparing bail application papers and suggested that the court impose strict bail conditions on the defendant.

Mr Beto reminded the court that the complainant and the defendant are husband and wife, and there is a real risk that the accused might reoffend and interfere with prosecution witnesses.

He further reminded the court that a similar incident of reoffending occurred this year, but that the charge was withdrawn by the Crown.

Defence counsel, Ms Sylvia Pitamama, on the other hand, informed the court that a reconciliation was held between the complainant and defendant with a view to keeping the peace.

Ms Pitamama further reminded the court that the defendant is the family provider and has the financial capacity to complete any bail conditions as imposed by the court.

She told the court that the defendant’s mother is in court and will pay for his bail conditions and promised that he will strive to abide by the set of bail conditions as imposed by the court.

Principal Magistrate Ben Alaisa asked the defence lawyer if the complainant and defendant are still in a relationship, to which Ms Pitamama confirmed.

The complainant, with her children and the defendant’s mother, were in attendance at the court yesterday.

Principal Magistrate Alaisa read out the strict bail conditions to the defendant standing at the dock. He directed that the defendant must pay $1000.00 cash bail, and must reside with his mother (Surety) and not interfere directly with the complainant and the prosecution witnesses.

The court also ordered that he must report to the police station every Wednesday, must strive to keep the peace and good behaviour and that he must attend all his court dates.

The main case was adjourned to May 20 for oral PTC preparation, where parties will attend court to set a proposed trial date.

Prosecution alleged that the accused, on December 24, 2025, physically abused his wife by kicking her head.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge of domestic violence when he was arraigned on May 6, 2026.

The offence of Domestic Violence attracts a penalty fine of $30,000 or 3-years imprisonment or both a fine and imprisonment.

Mr Steward Beto represents the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Ms Sylvia Pitamama of the Public Solicitors’ Office represents the accused.

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COA upholds conviction of taxi driver guilty of rape

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Court of Appeal (COA) recently upheld the judgement against a taxi driver who had been found guilty of rape.

The COA held that the rape of an adult by a taxi driver unknown to the complainant warrants a starting sentence of at least 10 to 12 years imprisonment, which should reflect the breach of trust placed in the driver of the taxi.

This comes after the Court of Appeal on May 1, 2026, dismissed an appeal made by the taxi driver who had been convicted of rape and had appealed the judgement.

The three appeal justices noted in their ruling that: “The starting point for a conviction of rape of an adult by a taxi driver, unknown to the complainant, would warrant a starting point of at least 10 to 12 years imprisonment before considering other aggravating and mitigating factors, in order to recognise the gross breach of trust placed in the driver of the taxi”.

The taxi driver made an appeal against his rape conviction challenging a High Court finding of his guilt as ‘unsafe and unsatisfactorily based on evidence’.

The appellant (taxi driver) who cannot be named to protect the identity of his victim was convicted on December 1, 2025 for raping a 23-year-old woman who had recently moved to Honiara.

On November 21, 2022, the complainant took a taxi driven by the appellant. Instead of stopping at her home, the appellant drove her to a private area and had sexual intercourse with her without her free and voluntary consent.

The court heard that the complainant resisted and made it clear she did not consent, both verbally and through her actions.

Counsel for the appellant submitted that the lack of evidence that would show “force, threats, violence or intimidation should have raised alarm bells that the prosecution has failed to prove the allegation of rape”.

However, the appeal justices noted that the appellant was not someone known to the complainant, she had been in Honiara for only a short time.

“She engaged a taxi to go back to her aunt’s home. The driver did not stop to let her out but in effect abducted her. He took her to a relatively remote place where he commenced trying to touch the complainant in an intimate way.”

Thus, the appeal justices were of the view that the complainant had not consented to the sexual activity and the appellant must have known or at the very least was reckless as to that lack of consent.

“The charge of Rape is characterised in the penal code as a crime against morality,” the appeal Justices noted.

The Court of Appeal Justices include, Sir John Baptist Muria, Chief Justice Sir Gibuma Gibbs Salika, and Howard Lowry.

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Man guilty of grievous harm released

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court has sentenced a man to three years’ imprisonment for the crimes he committed eight years ago, after he was deemed fit to face charges after eight years of psychiatric treatment.

But he was then released since he had served his time in custody beyond the prison sentence.

Warren Piringisau, 48, of Nataghera village, Santa Ana Island, has been in custody since August 9, 2018, following his arrest for allegedly stabbing fellow villager Golden Kaea, 40, during the early hours of August 8, 2018.

Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea told parties in court yesterday that after considering detailed submissions from both counsels, in view of the facts of the case as taken against the culpability of the offending, he was of the view that a custodial sentence is appropriate.

The court imposed a three-year imprisonment on the defendant. However, that sentence is backdated to when the defendant was first remanded in custody on August 9, 2018, in KiraKira, Makira Province.

“He had served that sentence already. I ordered that he be released at the rising of the court,” the Chief Magistrate ordered.

He further directed that Mr Piringisau be released into the care of his biological brother at Jackson Ridge, Honiara, to continue treatment at the National Referral Hospital.

The case was initially heard in Kirakira but was transferred to Honiara in July 2020 after concerns were raised about the defendant’s mental health.

Psychiatric assessments by Dr Paul Orotaloa diagnosed the defendant with schizophrenia (disorganised subtype), noting severely disorganised thinking and incoherent speech.

For years, medical reports consistently found him unfit to enter a plea. That report of the findings was forwarded by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to the Governor General (GG).

The GG ordered that he be detained at the Rove Correctional, which resulted in his case being postponed after he was deemed mentally unfit for trial.

However, in a November 2025 medical review, Orotaloa reported that the defendant had shown improvement and was now capable of understanding court proceedings, although with a slower thought process.

The charge was read out and explained to the defendant, to which he understood and pleaded guilty when arraigned.

It was alleged that the defendant entered Isaac Waru’s home around midnight and stabbed Mr Kaea twice in the back with a small, bent knife while he slept.

The victim sustained three penetrating stab wounds to his chest and back, requiring urgent medical care. He was treated at Gupuna Clinic and admitted to Kirakira Hospital before being transferred to the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara.

Doctors later concluded that Kaea’s injuries left him with permanent health complications, stating there was “very little (no chance) of full recovery”.

The case illustrates the challenges of balancing criminal responsibility with mental health considerations within our criminal justice system.

Mr Steward Beto prosecuted the case, and he represented the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Ms Hazel Rua from the Public Solicitors’ Office represented the defendant.

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Central market bus-stops temporarily relocated

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Honiara Central Market bus stop serving commuters travelling to east Honiara has been temporarily relocated to the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) poolside area opposite the Honiara City Council (HCC) roundabout.

The relocation follows ongoing road upgrade works in the Central Business District at Point Cruz.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with this paper yesterday, MID Director of Transport Infrastructure Management Services, Ismael Alulu, said the temporary bus stop will operate daily from 5.30am to 9.30pm.

“We have security personnel who will open the gates early in the mornings. Buses travelling to eastward areas such as Naha, Borderline, King George (KG) and Lungga will pick up and drop off passengers from this location,” Mr Alulu said.

He said the temporary arrangement came into effect yesterday, Wednesday, May 13, and is expected to remain in place until August or September, depending on the progress of the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP) road works.

Mr Alulu explained that the sea-side eastbound lane will be soon to be closed while discussions on further traffic arrangements continue.

“At the moment, buses travelling from the eastern side will continue to use the Point Cruz Hot Bread roundabout to return to the temporary bus stop after dropping off passengers at the Honiara Magistrate’s Court bus stop,” he said.

HCC law enforcement officer, Leban Lokata, also confirmed the temporary relocation, saying the change was necessary to allow road works to continue smoothly and safely.

“Due to the ongoing road development, the Central Market bus stop serving the eastern part of the city has been relocated to the MID area,” Mr Lokata said.

He calls on commuters to cooperate with authorities and follow the temporary arrangements.

“I appeal to commuters to cooperate with us and help ensure everyone’s safety while the road development continues,” he said.

Mr Lokata added that the public will be informed of any further changes as the road works progress.

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‘BEEN AN HONOUR’

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Caretaker PM Jeremiah Manele thanks the people of Solomon Islands and partners, and the people of Hograno, Kia, Havulei constituency, ahead of tomorrow’s prime minister election

BY IRWIN ANGIKI

Jeremiah Manele has thanked the people and partners of Solomon Islands saying it has been his honour to serve as Prime Minister.

A special mention was to his people of Hograno, Havulei and Kia constituency who have placed their trust in him to represent them in parliament, enabling him to become the leader of Solomon Islands following the 2024 National General Elections. [See full statement on page 6]

Tomorrow parliament meets to elect a new prime minister. Three candidates are Peter Shanel Agovaka (MP for Central Guadalcanal), Matthew Wale (MP for Auki Langalanga) and Manasseh Maelanga (MP for East Malaita).

Ahead of this, caretaker PM Manele called the press to convey his message to the people and partners of Solomon Islands yesterday.

“As our nation prepares for the election of a new leader this Friday, 15 May, I could not leave office without taking this opportunity to speak directly to the people of our country through the media,” Manele addressed the press conference.

“I wish to thank every Solomon Islander for the privilege of serving as your Prime Minister. It was one of the greatest honours of my life. I leave this office with a clear conscience and with profound gratitude for the opportunity to have contributed, in whatever way I could, to the growth of our nation.”

Breaking the cycle of violence

Not a stone was thrown as Manele was announced Solomon Islands’ new prime minister on May 2, 2024. He won by 31 votes to 18 against Matthew Wale.

Manele’s victory was back-dropped by a culture of violence whenever there was national leadership change or gridlock – notably the election of Manasseh Sogavare as new PM on April 29, 2019, minor localised frictions reported as ‘two minor riots’ when Mr Sogavare was elected PM on December 9, 2014, election of Snyder Rini as PM on April 18, 2006, and the Honiara riots of November 2021.

In his farewell press conference yesterday, caretaker PM Manele reflected on this, appealing for Solomon Islands to continue observing peace as we welcome a new prime minister tomorrow.

“When I first stood before you as your Prime Minister-elect on May 2, 2024, I made a sacred pledge. I promised that I would discharge my duties diligently and with integrity, and that I would at all times put the interests of our people and our country first, above all other interests. At that time, I called for us to celebrate a ‘festival of democracy’ to show the world that we could change leadership without the violence and destruction that had scarred our past.

“Today, as I prepare to hand over the baton, I believe we have fulfilled that pledge. We have navigated legal challenges and political shifts through the courts and the floor of Parliament and not through the streets. We have upheld the rule of law. By standing here today and facilitating an orderly transition, we are proving that our democracy is no longer fragile; it is maturing. We are keeping the promise of a peaceful Solomon Islands for our children,” Manele said.

“As we approach Friday, I remind all Solomon Islanders that there are three candidates contesting for the position of Prime Minister. This is the democratic process in action. I ask every citizen, in every province, to respect the choice that will be made by your elected Members of Parliament.”

First son of Isabel to be prime minister

Caretaker PM Manele used yesterday’s press conference to acknowledge his people of the Hograno, Kia and Havulei constituency.

Manele is the first person from Isabel province to be a prime minister of Solomon Islands.

“While I have had the honour of serving the entire nation, my heart remains rooted in the hills and shores of Hograno-Kia-Havulei. To my constituents: thank you for the trust you placed in me. You gave me the mandate to represent you, which eventually allowed me to serve at the highest level of our land.

“As the first son of Isabel Province to serve as your Prime Minister, I want to say to my people of Isabel: thank you for your unwavering support. I hope that my time in this office has served as a beacon for our children in the provinces to show them that no matter which island you call home, there is no limit to how you can serve our country,” Manele said.

‘Solomon Islands remains open for business’

Caretaker PM Manele thanked the country’s partners, investors and the private sector for their partnership and support during his government’s tenure, encouraging them to continue.

“To our private sector, state-owned enterprises, investors and our regional and international partners, thank you for partnership and commitment to support the government and our people. On this note, Solomon Islands remains open for business. We remain committed to maintaining a stable and secure environment for investment, development, and economic growth. This orderly transition of power reflects the continued strengthening of our democratic institutions. We value your partnership and assure you that the foundations of our economy remain a priority through this transition.

“Yes, political transitions can sometimes create uncertainty, and at times people may feel anxious about what comes next. I encourage everyone to continue to have confidence in our democratic system and in the rule of law.”

Youths, the future of our nation

Caretaker PM Manele addressed the youths of Solomon Islands encouraging them to strive for a better future and be responsible citizens.

“To the young people of Solomon Islands: Your energy and passion are the future of this nation. Do not look at politics with bitterness or cynicism. Politics is ultimately the tool we use to shape the future you wish to inherit.

“Speak your mind and stand up for what you believe in but always do so with responsibility, and respect for your fellow citizens, leadership at all levels and the institutions that guide our nation.

“Freedom of expression is a jewel of our democracy, but it comes with the weight of responsibility. When we are responsible in what we say and what we do, we contribute positively to the development of our country,” Manele said.

Uphold our Christian values

Manele urged Solomon Islanders to live their Christian values towards maintaining peace, especially when the nation welcomes a new prime minister tomorrow.

“Solomon Islands is a Christian country. Our faith should not just be found in our words or our Sabbath and Sunday worship, but in our actions in how we treat one another, how we forgive, and how we uphold the dignity of our neighbours even when we see the world differently.

“Let our light shine through our kindness and our self-control during this week. Do not allow political differences to divide communities or damage long-standing relationships.

“The future of this country will depend not only on the leader elected to office this Friday, but also on the way our people choose to treat one another in the streets, in the markets, and in the villages,” Manele said.

Jeremiah Manele is the 13th prime minister of Solomon Islands.

He is serving his third term as Member of Parliament for Hograno, Kia, Havulei Constituency of Isabel province.

In his two-year period as prime minister he has faced three motions of no-confidence – First, filed by Gordon Darcy Lilo (MP for Central Honiara) but withdrawn on December 16, 2024. Second, filed by Mr Darcy Lilo on April 28, 2025 and withdrawn on May 6, 2025. Third, filed by Fredrick Kologeto (MP for South Vella la Vella) on March 17, 2026 and debated in parliament on May 7, 2026. The third motion was successful.

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