The Office of the Attorney General (AG) is facing mounting scrutiny over its handling of the current political situation, with claims emerging that its advice on due process has been inconsistent.
According to close sources and a former politician, concerns have been raised over why standard legal advice was not immediately extended to the new coalition after 12 Cabinet ministers defected to join the Opposition, which now commands majority support in Parliament.
“One would expect the normal process to apply once a government loses its numbers,” a close source who spoke to the Solomon Star in an interview over the weekend said.
“But in this case, the advice appears to have shifted, and people are questioning why,” the source added.
The concern comes amid an escalating political standoff involving Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, who is under mounting pressure following a High Court order directing him to convene Parliament within three days.
The ruling followed a case brought by an opposition coalition of 28 Members of Parliament, effectively placing the government in a minority position after a series of defections.
The court’s decision is widely regarded as significant, giving the Prime Minister the option to either convene Parliament and face a motion of no confidence or step down.
However, critics argue the matter should have been resolved through Parliament in the first place.
“Why go to court when this is clearly a parliamentary process?” the former politician questioned.
“We have seen this before, and the proper channel was followed without court involvement.”
Public reaction in Western Province has also drawn comparisons to a similar political episode in 2020 involving former Premier David Gina.
At that time, Premier Gina lost the confidence of several members of his Executive, resulting in the loss of the Assembly mandate required to govern.
A full Assembly meeting was convened, where a motion of no confidence was tabled and passed.
Following due process, Christian Mesepitu, Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) for South East Vella, was elected as the new Premier along with a new Executive.
“That process was clear and straightforward—Assembly was called, motion was tabled, and leadership changed,” the source added.
“So people are now asking why the same approach is not being applied at the national level.”
Sources said the perceived inconsistency has raised concerns about the role of the Attorney General’s Chambers in advising both national and provincial governments.
“In 2020 during the Western Provincial Assembly (WPA), advice was to convene the Assembly and settle the matter on the floor,” the former politician said.
“Now, with similar circumstances at the national level, the approach appears different. That is what is troubling many observers.”
The ongoing situation in Honiara continues to heighten political tension, with the Opposition pushing for Parliament to be convened to test the government’s majority.
“This is ultimately about numbers on the floor of Parliament,” the source stressed.
“Delaying that process only prolongs uncertainty.” The source further added.
As legal proceedings continue, observers warn that the unfolding developments could have far-reaching implications for governance and constitutional practice in Solomon Islands.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
