Solomon Islands lawmakers have chosen former Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele as the new Prime Minister in a significant political development. Manele, known for his pro-China stance, emerged victorious against opposition leader Matthew Wales in the secret ballot held on Thursday, securing 31 votes from the 49-member parliament. The announcement was made by Governor-General David Okete Vuvuiri Vunagi outside the National Parliament of Solomon Islands.
Solomon Alignment with China
This development highlights the state’s continued alignment with China, a trend that has raised concerns in the West, including the United States and Australia. Manele’s win is a departure from the tenure of former Prime Minister Manasseh Damukana Sogavare, whose policies drew Solomon Islands closer to China.
The Vote
Security was heightened in the capital city of Honiara as lawmakers collected to cast their votes.
Incumbent Prime Minister Sogavare’s decision to step aside from the race reflected voters’ desire for change, as seen in the recent general elections. Manele has vowed to lead a government of national unity, focusing on economic recovery in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Manele’s Experience and Outlook
During his tenure as foreign minister, Manele played an important role in steering Solomon Islands towards closer ties with China, leading up to the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2019. His term was also marked by Solomon Islands’ switch in diplomatic ties from Taiwan, formalized during his visit to China. He has articulated a foreign policy of “friends to all and enemies to none.” His diplomatic and international affairs experience render him a key figure in the state’s future trajectory.
Manele’s plan for Solomon Islands prioritizes economic and infrastructure development, areas where China has been a significant partner.
International Response
The election outcome has drawn attention from various parties, with neighbouring Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Norman Albanese expressing a desire to continue its close relationship with Solomon Islands. Senator Penny Wong also released a statement on Twitter.
Congratulations to Jeremiah Manele, the new Prime Minister of Solomon Islands.
He has always served his country proudly, and to be elected leader is a great honour.
As Ministers we shared a focus on boosting economic and security ties and I look forward to building on this. pic.twitter.com/tY1l6wIIFc
— Senator Penny Wong (@SenatorWong) May 2, 2024
New Zealand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Raymond Peters also released a statement.
Congratulations to Jeremiah Manele on his election as Prime Minister of Solomon Islands today.
It’s been pleasure to work with you in your former capacity as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
NZ looks forward to continuing our strong partnership with Solomon Islands.
🇸🇧 🤝 🇳🇿
-WP pic.twitter.com/H1wAng2zAd
— Winston Peters (@NewZealandMFA) May 2, 2024
Opposition Concerns
Despite Manele’s victory, opposition leader Matthew Wale has voiced concerns about the role of money and positions in the lobbying leading up to the vote. He criticized the government’s failure to address issues such as job creation and healthcare access, pointing to the dominance of logging and mining industries in the economy.
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