Three MPs nominated for Prime Minister’s post
BY NED GAGAHE
Three candidates have officially entered the race for Prime Minister ahead of Friday’s election following the close of nominations at midday yesterday.
The three contenders are Central Guadalcanal MP Peter Shanel Agovaka, East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga and Aoke/Langalanga MP Matthew Cooper Wale.
Their nominations now set the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched Prime Ministerial Election in Parliament on Friday, May 15, 2026.
The nomination of three candidates highlights the changing political landscape following the fall of the GNUT majority government and the successful Motion of No Confidence that removed former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele last Thursday.
Mr Agovaka, a co-founder of OUR Party, had earlier left the GNUT camp during the recent political defections that changed the balance of power in Parliament.
Mr Agovaka has now returned to support the caretaker government side and is being fielded as its candidate for Prime Minister.
According to official nomination details released yesterday, Mr Agovaka’s nomination was lodged at 10:28am.
His nomination was supported by Hon. Paul Popora Bosawai, Hon. Jaimie Lency Vokia and Hon. Rexon Annex Ramofafia and Hon. Freda AB Tuki Soriacoma.
Mr Maelanga’s nomination was lodged at 10:35am and was nominated by Hon. Clezy Rore, Hon. Francis M. Belande Sade, Hon. Morris Toiraena and Hon. Daniel Waneoroa.
Meanwhile, Mr Wale’s nomination was submitted at 11:15am. He was nominated by Hon. Rick Nelson Houenipwela, Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi, Hon. George Temahua and Hon. Lazarus Alfred Rina.
The new coalition’s move to nominate both Mr Maelanga and Mr Wale has exposed differing interests within the opposition camp as talks continue ahead of Friday’s Prime Ministerial vote.
Political discussions and coalition arrangements are expected to continue throughout the week as Members of Parliament work to secure numbers before the Prime Ministerial election.
The outcome of Friday’s vote will determine the country’s next government following the recent political developments in Parliament.
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