Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said the mass resignation of cabinet ministers and backbenchers from the government does not dissolve the Government for National United and Transformation (GNUT).
Prime Minister Manele told the local media Friday that their resignation is their choice which he respected.
He said the departure of the members does not dissolve the government, rather a blessing in disguise.
“Let me make it clear: the departure of these members does not dissolve this government.”
“The resignation of senior ministers is a blessing in disguise. It is the dawn of a new era to usher in fresh, young and energetic leaders who are willing to take up the challenge to lead our people and country. GNUT door is open, Manele said.
He added in such a situation, it is important to remain focused on what matters most.
“Political shifts are part of the democratic journey.”
He said the strength of any government lies in its ability to maintain the confidence of Parliament and that confidence will be tested according to the Constitution.
“Until such time, my responsibility remains unchanged: to lead a government that continues to function, deliver essential services, and work toward the priorities we set together over the past year,” he said.
On suggestions for him to step down, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to serve the country, unless parliament decides otherwise.
“I was mandated to lead and deliver on the collective vision for national unity and transformation. If and when Parliament decides otherwise, that decision will be respected,” he said.
On assertion about the lack of ability in addressing the nation’s pressing challenges, the Prime Minister pointed out that such assertion does not align with the reality of what the government achieved over the past year.
“To claim that the government lacks leadership is to ignore the tangible progress we have made so far.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to deliver on our promises and tackle the challenges facing our people.
“Our leadership is defined by unity, purpose and service to the people not by individual demand or disruptions,” he said.
The Prime Minister assured that the government continues to govern with clarity, not denying the current political situation.
Ministries are operational, projects are progressing while development partners remain actively engaged in supporting shared national goals.
Meanwhile, Central Kwara’ae MP, Honourable Ricky Fuo, and West Makira MP, Derrick Manuari, were officially sworn in as Cabinet Ministers in Honiara.
The swearing-in was officiated by the Governor-General, Sir Reverend David Tiva Kapu.
Fuo and Manuari joined the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) under the leadership of Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.
Ricky Fuo was appointed Minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) while Derrick Manuari – appointed Minister for the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE)
Their appointments follow the recent swearing-in of Daniel Suilea Waneoroa, MP for North Malaita, who took his oath as Minister for Rural Development on Friday.
Prime Minister Manele welcomed the new ministers into Cabinet, noting that their appointments reinforce the government’s commitment to inclusive leadership and national development.
“The inclusion of Fuo andManuari ensures greater representation in Cabinet and reflects our shared determination to deliver results for all Solomon Islanders,” the Prime Minister stated.
The Government for National Unity and Transformation continues to work towards building a stable and effective executive, focused on development, unity, and service to the nation.
