PRIME Minister Jeremiah Manele has broken the silence over the looming no confidence motion to be moved against his Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) coalition next Tuesday.
His Office issued an advisory to the media fraternity on Thursday afternoon, announcing the event scheduled for Friday 2nd May, exactly one year after he resume power as a PM.
In it, Press Secretary Gina Kekea said:
“I trust you are all doing well.
“You are kindly invited to a press conference [to be] hosted by the Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, scheduled for tomorrow, Friday 2nd May 2025 at 4:00 PM, in the Cabinet Room, Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC).’
“Topic: GNUT One Year Anniversary and current political situation,” she said.
‘We would appreciate it if you could please send someone from your organisation or attend yourself, as this is an important engagement. Thank you, as always, for your continued support.”
Ms Kekea reminded members of the media of the “the standard protocols regarding dress code and conduct while at OPMC.”
This is the first time Prime Minister Manele will have hosted a news conference since the political upheaval which has split the GNUT coalition from its core.
The situation continues to be fluid and political observers said things would become clearer by the weekend.
One of the first casualties is Hon Bradley Tovosia MP, who was forced to resign as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification on Monday.
As well, four-time Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare had walked out of the GNUT coalition, citing “weak leadership” for his decision to walk out with nine OUR Party faithfuls.
At the present the numbers stand at 23 for GNUT and the Opposition bloc at 26. A number of politicians have been identified as potential dark horses who could cause the biggest upset in the outcome of the vote.
Parliament will convene on Tuesday 6th May for the leadership battle via the Motion of No Confidence.
By Alfred Sasako
