THE Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is forging a long-term development pathway for Solomon Islands through discipline, financial reform, bold infrastructure planning and partnership with trusted donors.
This was expressed by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele at a Press Conference in the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet late Friday.
The press conference followed the resignation of five GNUT Cabinet Ministers Manasseh Sogavare, Manasseh Maelanga, Nestor Ghiro, Rollen Seleso and Freda Tuki from both their ministerial portfolios and defection to the Opposition bench along with and five backbenchers, MP for West Kwaio, Claudius Tei’ifi, MP for East Kwaio, Stanley Festus Sofu, MP for Ulawa-Ugi, William Marau, MP for Temotu Pele James Bonuga and the MP for East Central Guadalcanal, Lazarus Rima.
These GNUT defectors cited indeciveness and weak leadership by PM Manele, especially in addressing issues within the mining and minerals sector, for their walkout on the one-year-old government.
These mass resignation was followed by of the resignation of the MP for East Guadalcanal, Bradley Smokey Rodo Tovosia as Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister for Mines Energy and Rural Electrification. Tovosia remains a GNUT backbencher.
Those who defected to the Opposition bench accused PM Manele of weak leadership in dealing with the country’s mineral resources
“Ladies and gentlemen in summary, the GNUT leadership is focused on more than day-to-day governance. It is shaping a long term development pathway through discipline financial reform, bold infrastructure planning and partnership with trusted donors.
“GNUT is demonstrating that despite today’s challenges, the future of the Solomon Islands is being built with intent, integrity and a vision for sustainable prosperity for all,” PM Manele told the local press.
He said as the government marks one year of service under the GNUT leadership, he would like to express his
sincere gratitude to his Cabinet Ministers who were present with him at the Press Conference and the people of Solomon Islands for their trust and support.
“The achievements we have made so far is the only beginning, they (achievements) lay the foundation for the work that still lies ahead.
“I’m proud of what we have accomplished together. We have worked tirelessly to create a government that focused on stability, unity and transformation.
“While we have made significant progress, we also recognise the challenges that lie ahead. As we reflect on this milestones, we also acknowledge that leadership is tested not only in moments of achievements, but also in times of change.
“This week, we have witnessed shifts in our political landscape, developments that warrant honest respect and response,” PM Manele said.
Meanwhile, the MP for West Makira, Derick Manuari was sworn in as the new Minister for Mines and Energy, the MP for West Kwara’ae Ricky Fuo’o as Minister for Infrastructure Development and the MP for North Malaita, Daniel Suilea Waneoroa as Minister for Rural Development.
The swearing in of these new ministers was held to replace those who defected to the Opposition bench and is crucial to GNUT’s efforts to remain in office ahead of Tuesday’s motion of no confidence.
By IAN LADDS OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
