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
“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
“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
“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
“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,
“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
“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
“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
“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
“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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