-PM Manele holds ground ahead of no confidence debate
-PM refuses Wale’s call for him to step down immediately
BY NED GAGAHE
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has declared that he will not step down and will allow the Motion of No Confidence to proceed as scheduled on Tuesday, May 6.
“I will not step down before that date. I will allow that motion to be moved on the 6th of May and then we’ll debate it and we’ll see how it goes. Thank you, Mr Speaker,” PM Manele told Parliament yesterday.
“Thank you, Hon Speaker. Let me also thank the Leader of the Opposition who has spoken in support of this important motion. Once again, I reiterate my call for the general public to respect the democratic process, especially in light of the Motion of No Confidence now being formally tabled. A full debate will take place on Tuesday, 6th May 2025.”
The Prime Minister’s comments came in response to remarks from Opposition Leader Matthew Wale on the floor of Parliament, who acknowledged the significance of the motion and called for the formation of a new government.
“I do wish to thank the Honorable Prime Minister for moving the motion. It is a matter of public urgency that this issue be addressed and resolved, so that a new government can be formed and Parliament can continue to transact the business of the executive,” Wale said.
He added: “We are all adherents to the principles enshrined in our Constitution—that government must be by majority. For that reason, this matter deserves urgent attention and priority from Parliament. I join the Prime Minister in calling on the public to remain calm and to avoid any actions or behaviour that might lead to instability.”
“Motions, loyalties, and allegiances must be brought under discipline, across the country and especially in Honiara, to give space for leaders to resolve the issues and for this matter to be determined on Tuesday.” Wale said.
He further added: “As you can see, Mr Speaker, the mandate of the House has already shifted. In that same spirit of calmness, it would be expedient if the Prime Minister to consider stepping down now, rather than prolonging the uncertainty until Tuesday the 6th. But that, of course, is a matter for him to consider.”
Wale concluded by reaffirming the Opposition’s support for the motion:
“This side of the House, the full bench is pleased to support this motion, Mr Speaker. Thank you very much.” Wale said.
