BY NED GAGAHE
Newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale has promised Solomon Islanders that change is coming, pledging to pursue reforms aimed at creating a more inclusive economy where all citizens benefit, not just a privileged few.
Speaking emotionally to local journalists outside Parliament House shortly after his election yesterday, Wale described his elevation to the nation’s top office as both an honour and a heavy responsibility.
“It’s a great honour and a wonderful privilege. This is a great country,” Wale said before pausing and adding, “Sorry, I’m still emotional.”
The new Prime Minister said serving the people of Solomon Islands is a responsibility he will not take lightly.
“To serve these beautiful people of this country, it’s a privilege that I would not take lightly,” he said.
Prime Minister Wale reflected on years spent advocating for reforms and national development, saying his government would now work to turn those ideas into action despite limited time and resources.
“I have said many things over many years, the things we must do for our country. I will do my utmost in that direction.
“Obviously we cannot do everything in two years. Obviously, we do not have much time,” he said.
The Prime Minister stressed he does not want his administration remembered for inaction and promised to make meaningful progress during its term.
“I don’t want to be accused of doing nothing. We want to do as much as possibly as we can in the short time with limited resources.
“But I promise you, change is coming. Give me a week or two and you will see,” Wale stated.
Wale thanked Solomon Islanders for remaining patient throughout weeks of political uncertainty and leadership negotiations that followed recent developments in Parliament.
“Well, I say thank you to all Solomon Islanders who have followed the process when leadership has been stuck for a number of weeks. It has come to a conclusion,” he said.
He called on citizens to unite behind national development efforts and urged people to become productive contributors to the country’s growth.
“Let us all bind together and everybody must work.
“If you have nothing to do, do something. Let us all be active in doing something,” Wale said.
The Prime Minister also outlined his broader vision for economic reform, saying the current system must change to ensure ordinary citizens have greater opportunities to participate and benefit.
“We want to create something in this economy of this country where everybody participates and benefits.
“We must change that kind of economy where only a few elites are benefiting while the rest are at the bottom. This has to change,” he said.
While acknowledging transformation will not happen immediately, Wale insisted his government is committed to beginning the process.
“We can’t achieve it overnight, but we must start from somewhere,” he added.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
