Rennell and Bellona Premier Derek Tenoaika Pongi is facing a motion of no confidence today (December 29) as the Provincial Assembly convenes a special sitting in the provincial capital, Tigoa.
The motion was cleared to proceed after the Attorney General’s Chambers confirmed that an earlier assembly meeting held on December 9 was procedurally invalid.
Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS), Wayne Ghemu, ruled that the meeting breached key provisions of the Provincial Government Act 1997 and the Provincial Assembly Standing Orders, specifically the requirement for seven clear days’ notice.
The motion was originally submitted on December 8, with the assembly meeting convened the following day.
Renbel Assembly Speaker Jephthah Tuhagenga confirmed from Tigoa that he received fresh advice from MPGIS on the afternoon of December 24, directing him to convene a special assembly sitting on December 29.
“I had to reissue a notice today, calling on all MPAs to travel to Tigoa and attend the meeting,” Mr. Tuhagenga said.
“The motion of no confidence is the only business of the meeting. According to procedures, 48 hours after the motion, an election for a new premier and executive will be conducted.”
The non-executive group, led by Ward 4 MPA Erick Sau’eha, consists of six members, while Premier Pongi retains the support of four MPAs in the 10-member assembly.
Premier Pongi, who was elected on May 17, 2024, said he had pledged to restore public confidence in provincial leadership and noted that significant developments had taken place during his 18 months in office.
He said his Alliance for Reform and Progress government successfully passed two Provincial Capacity Development Fund (PCDF) submissions, enabling the province to access development funding. He added that previous administrations—comprising some current non-executive MPAs—failed to access the fund due to unmet requirements.
“For the first time, the province has accessed ward grants, which are now paid directly to Ward Development Committees,” Premier Pongi said.
He also highlighted infrastructure improvements, including sanitation facilities in selected schools and the installation of 24-hour solar power and Starlink internet services at Tigoa Station.
Premier Pongi expressed disappointment that two young leaders had crossed the floor but accepted it as part of politics.
“That is politics. As some say, there is no permanent relationship—it is like a shifting sun,” he said.
He stated that if his government were to fall, he would accept the outcome with dignity.
“If my government is going to fall, I will accept the defeat with honour and not drag the province into a political tug-of-war,” he said.
Premier Pongi also suggested there may be external influence behind the motion, citing his government’s refusal to grant a business licence to Nickel Exploration Solomon Islands Ltd (NESI) due to failure to follow due process.
However, he said he remained ready to work with any future government.
“Leadership did not begin when I became an MPA. I have served in South Seas Evangelical Church leadership and in my communities in Rennell,” he said.
He called on the public to remain calm and maintain unity during the process.
“This process is part of our democratic system. I urge our people not to spread rumours or take sides, but to focus on peace and unity within our wards, villages, and families,” he said.
“I call upon everyone to keep calm hearts and join in prayer so we may navigate this period with patience and grace.”
