BY SAMIE WAIKORI
Rennell and Bellona Province has a new premier. He is Eric Sau’eha, the Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Ward 4 on Rennell Island.
His election to the position came on Friday, January 2, 2026, after he secured a majority of 6-4 victory over MPA George Tango in the 10-seated Renbel Provincial Assembly.
The election followed a successful Motion of No Confidence against former Premier, Derek Pongi, the MPA for Provincial Ward 3, which was held on Monday, December 29, 2025.
Renbel Speaker Jephthah told Island Sun from Tigoa last week that the premier’s election was initially scheduled for Wednesday, December 31, 2025, but was postponed following advice from the Attorney General’s Chambers.
Mr Sau’eha had successfully moved the motion of no-confidence against former premier Pongi.
Sau’eha won the ballot with six votes to four and was subsequently sworn in as the new Premier of Renbel Province.
In his maiden speech, Premier Sau’eha acknowledged fellow MPAs who supported the motion and thanked members of the Rennell and Bellona Provincial Assembly, as well as the Office of the Provincial Speaker, for administering the process.
He also acknowledged the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) and the Attorney General’s Chambers for their advice and guidance, which enabled the successful conduct of the vote of no confidence.
The newly elected premier further expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the outgoing premier and his executive, recognizing their joint efforts in developing the province.
Photo: Supplied
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