THE resignation by the Member of Parliament (MP) for East Guadalcanal, Bradley Smokey Rodo Tovosia as Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) was guided by the need for cohesion, accountability and not in response to any demands by external forces.
This was stated by Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele at a press conference in the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet on Friday.
PM Manele said, Tovosia had voluntarily tendered his from both positions following consultations within the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) coalition and that resignation was handled with the respect it deserved.
“Cabinet reshuffles and changes are a normal path of any government operation, and is guided by the need for cohesion, accountability and the best interest of the nation, and not in response to any demands by external forces.
“Such decisions are not made in haste, nor are they made with other motives. Such decisions are based on internal discussions, careful judgement and the desire to maintain the stability of the government,” PM Manele said.
GNUT this week also held a chupu ceremony to acknowledged Tovosia for his leadership as DPM and Minister.
Turning to the resignation of GNUT MPs and defection to the Opposition bench, PM Manele said the departure of the MPs does not dissolve the government.
“The strength of any government lies in its ability to maintain the confidence of Parliament and that confidence will be tested according to our Constitution. Until such time, my responsibility remains unchanged to lead a government that continues to function, deliver essential services and work towards the priorities we set together over the past year,” he added.
PM Manele said while he was aware of the internal discussions and different views, the decision to resign was theirs and those who have taken the decision to step away from the government have made a political choice, which he acknowledged and respected.
He then underscored that political alliances of Parliament are often fluid and can change anytime.
Responding to the call that he should step down as Prime Minister, the MP for Hograno/Kia/Havulei said; “I was mandated to lead and deliver a collective vision for national unity and transformation, and if Parliament decides otherwise, that decision will be respected.”
The GNUT defectors led by the East Choiseul MP Manasseh Sogavare, included the MP for East Malaita Manasseh Maelanga, MP for South Guadalcanal Rollen Seleso,MP for Central Makira, Nestor Ghiro, MP for Temotu VATU, Freda Tuki, West Kwaio, Claudius Tei’ifi, MP for East Kwaio Festus Sofu, MP for Ulawa-Ugi, William Marau, MP for Temotu Pele, James Bonuga, and MP for East Central Guadalcanal, Lazarus Rima.
By IAN LADDS OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
