BY NED GAGAHE
Parliament on Monday, July 14, 2025 witnessed two key developments, the swearing-in of a new Member of Parliament and the announcement of a new Leader of the Independent Group.
Mary Daniella Zae Garu, the newly elected MP for West Guadalcanal, officially took her oath of allegiance before the commencement of the day’s proceedings.
Clerk to Parliament Jefferson Hallu administered the oath during a brief ceremony.
Garu won the by-election held on 4 June 2025, following the passing of her late husband, former MP Moses Garu.
Her swearing-in fulfils the constitutional requirement under Section 63, which states that all Members of Parliament must take an oath before participating in the business of the House.
In a separate announcement, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Morris Toiraena informed the House that Manasseh Maelanga, MP for East Malaita and former Deputy Prime Minister, has been appointed as the new Leader of the Parliamentary Independent Group.
He replaces Peter Kenilorea Jr., who previously held the position.
Deputy Speaker Toiraena confirmed that, in accordance with Section 66(2) of the Constitution, the Governor-General officially appointed Maelanga to the role on 6 June 2025.
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