Solomon Islands caretaker Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele delivered an emotional and reflective final press conference on Wednesday, calling on Solomon Islanders to uphold peace, unity and respect for democracy as the country prepares to elect a new Prime Minister on Friday, 15 May.
Speaking directly to the nation through the media, Manele said he could not leave office without addressing the people and thanking them for their support during his tenure.
“In leadership, trust is the most valuable currency. Without it, no government, no matter how technically skilled, can truly serve its people,” he said.
Manele reflected on the pledge he made when he first stood before the nation as Prime Minister-elect on 02 May 2024, promising to serve with integrity and to put the interests of the people and country first.
He said the country has fulfilled that promise by navigating recent political and legal challenges peacefully through the courts and Parliament rather than through unrest on the streets.
“By standing here today and facilitating an orderly transition, we are proving that our democracy is no longer fragile. It is maturing,” he stated.
The outgoing Prime Minister thanked his constituents from Hograno, Kia, Katova and Havulei, and the people of Isabel Province for their unwavering support, noting that he was proud to be the first son of Isabel to serve as Prime Minister.
He also acknowledged the role of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), saying its mission was always greater than any one individual and focused on maintaining stability and delivering essential services to rural communities.
To ensure continuity during the transition, Manele confirmed that the caretaker government has nominated Peter Shannel Agovaka as the candidate for Prime Minister under the GINAT banner, a decision he said he fully supports.
“As we approach Friday, I remind all Solomon Islanders that there are three candidates contesting for the position of Prime Minister. This is the democratic process in action,” he said.
He urged citizens across the provinces to respect the choice that will be made by Members of Parliament and to remain calm and respectful regardless of the outcome.
Manele stressed the importance of respecting leaders at all levels, including Members of Parliament, Provincial Assemblies, chiefs, church leaders and community elders, whose wisdom he said forms the foundation of Solomon Islands society.
He reassured the private sector, investors and development partners that Solomon Islands remains open for business and committed to maintaining a stable and secure environment for economic growth.
“This orderly transition of power reflects the continued strengthening of our democratic institutions,” he said.
Addressing young people, Manele encouraged them to engage in politics with responsibility rather than cynicism, reminding them that freedom of expression comes with a duty to respect others.
He also reminded citizens of the country’s Christian values, urging people not to allow political differences to damage relationships within communities.
“The peace we maintain today is the air our children will breathe tomorrow. The unity we fight for now is the foundation upon which they will build their dreams,” he said.
Manele also reminded Solomon Islanders that leaders come and go, but the nation’s journey belongs to its people, and its future belongs to its children.
“May God bless our people and partners, and may God bless Solomon Islands from shore to shore,” he said.
