COMMENTARY: The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) appears to be in a state of desperation to regain its numerical strength, raising concerns over its stance on the One China Policy.
This follows GNUT’s acceptance of North Malaita Member of Parliament and Umi For Change Party representative, Daniel Waneoroa, as Minister for Rural Development (MRD) on Friday night — just days ahead of a no-confidence motion scheduled for Tuesday, 6 May.
Waneoroa is one of the Co-Chairs of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), alongside Peter Kenilorea Junior, United Party Wing Leader and Independent Leader in Parliament.
An Opposition spokesperson criticized Waneoroa’s inclusion in Cabinet, calling it contradictory to GNUT’s declared support for the One China Policy.
In July 2024, the Solomon Islands Government distanced itself from Kenilorea Junior’s attendance at an IPAC meeting in Taiwan, which it said violated the One China principle and risked damaging relations between the Solomon Islands and the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
The government reaffirmed its commitment to PRC sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating that any suggestion of Solomon Islands joining an anti-China alliance was wholly rejected.
It emphasized that the views expressed by Kenilorea Junior did not represent the Solomon Islands Government, Parliament, or its people.
Reiterating its position, the government stated that Taiwan is an integral part of China and that the country remains committed to the One China principle.
However, Kenilorea Junior responded, expressing regret over the government’s statement.
He defended his participation in the summit, which brought together MPs and Senators from 24 countries, asserting that it was intended to promote dialogue on stability in the Taiwan Strait, not to harm bilateral relations.
Kenilorea acknowledged pressure from Beijing on some of his IPAC colleagues not to attend the summit.
Still, he said that pressure only strengthened their resolve to participate.
While the Chinese Embassy in Honiara did not attempt to stop him, he felt the government’s statement was a veiled suggestion that he should not have travelled.
“It is truly regrettable and very concerning to read sentiments aimed at restricting the freedom of movement, expression, and conscience of our citizens — especially a Member of Parliament. Are we no longer a free country?” he said.
Kenilorea added, “Instead of attempting to unreasonably restrict our freedoms, it is the duty of a democratic government like GNUT to ensure those freedoms are upheld.”
IPAC brings together like-minded legislators who believe that holding China accountable is essential to maintaining the international rules-based order.
The alliance was born out of a growing consensus that the assumptions underpinning engagement with Beijing no longer reflect the current reality.
The PRC, under the Chinese Communist Party, has become increasingly authoritarian domestically and more assertive on the world stage.
Meanwhile, GNUT has made additional appointments as part of its Cabinet reshuffle. MP for West Makira, Derrick Manuarii, was named Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, while the MP for Central Kwara’ae has been appointed Minister for Infrastructure Development.
Several key ministries, however, remain vacant—including the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, and the post of Deputy Prime Minister.
By Local Political Analyst
Honiara
