[Published on Monday, March 23, 2026]
BY NED GAGAHE
PRIME Minister Jeremiah Manele has moved to ensure continuity in governance by appointing new Ministers, Acting Ministers and Supervising Ministers to fill up vacant portfolios following recent political developments.
Speaking during a media conference with local journalists on Sunday, Mr Manele confirmed that all government portfolios are now fully covered and Cabinet remains functional.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that several Cabinet Ministers from the former GNUT coalition have resigned, while a number of Members of Parliament have submitted a petition to the Governor-General seeking a possible Motion of No Confidence in Parliament.
“I acknowledge that these developments have prompted public discussion and interest,” Mr Manele said.
“Let me be absolutely clear: Your Government remains in office under the Constitution and continues to discharge its full responsibilities.”
He said that the current situation does not amount to a constitutional crisis but is part of the normal democratic process.
“What we are witnessing is not a constitutional crisis. It is a normal democratic process provided for under our Constitution,” he said.
Mr Manele assured the public that despite leadership changes within certain portfolios, government operations remain stable.
“Public services continue. National operations remain stable and uninterrupted,” he added.
He said the resignation of ministers and MPs is a matter of personal and political choice, which he respects, while thanking former ministers for their service to the country.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the mandate of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) goes beyond individuals.
To maintain effective governance, Mr Manele announced the following appointments:
Manasseh Sogavare, MP for East Choiseul, has been appointed Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination, and Acting Minister for Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration.
Trevor Manemahaga, MP for Gao/Bugotu, takes on the role of Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, and Acting Minister for Infrastructure Development.
Alfred Tuasulia, MP for West Kwara’ae, is now Minister for Communication and Aviation.
Nestor Giro, MP for Central Makira, has been appointed Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development.
Mary Daniella Zae Garu, MP for West Guadalcanal, takes up the role of Minister for Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs.
Freda Tuki Soriocomua, MP for Temotu Vatud, is now Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs.
Minister for Police Jimson Tanangada has been appointed Acting Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, while Minister for Finance Rexson Ramofafia serves as Acting Minister for Rural Development.
Minister for Fisheries Bradley Tovosia has been assigned as Supervising Minister for Health and Medical Services, and Forestry Minister Makario Tagini as Supervising Minister for Public Service.
Prime Minister Manele will also serve as Supervising Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade.
Mr Manele said that Cabinet continues to meet and make decisions necessary for the effective administration of government.
“All Ministries are fully covered. Cabinet remains functional and continues to meet and take decisions necessary for the effective administration of Government,” he said.
He assured the public that the government remains committed to maintaining stability and delivering services to the people of Solomon Islands.
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