Solomon Islands Prime Minister Resigns

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Resigns Today

By George Herming

Solomon Islands newly elected Prime Minister Snyder Rini this morning resigned just minutes before a “no confidence motion” against his coalition government was debated in parliament.

He was understood to have expected a number of defections from his group if the motion was allowed on the floor of parliament.

Four ministers from his coalition government led by Socred Party leader Manasseh Sogavare and Government Backbencher suddenly switched to the opposition bench before parliament started.

His election as Prime Minister Tuesday last week triggered two days of violence and looting in Honiara.

Mr Rini will remain as caretaker Prime Minister until the election of a new Prime Minister.

A date for the re-election of a new Prime Minister is yet to be decided .

Government MPs who left Rini’s camp included Manasseh Sogavare, Clay Forau Soalaoi, Siriako Usa, Peter Shanel and Martin Sopaghe.

It is still uncertain which side of the house Sogavare’s group will team up with to form the next coalition.

ENDS

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