Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has ordered an appeal to the Court of Appeal following a High Court decision Tuesday on the convening of Parliament and a motion of no confidence, saying key constitutional issues were not fully addressed.
Manele confirmed the government will challenge the ruling despite acknowledging the court’s swift handling of the case.
“I formally acknowledge the judgment delivered today by the High Court of Solomon Islands regarding the Judicial Review claim concerning the convening of Parliament and the processing of a Motion of No Confidence.”
He thanked the judiciary for moving quickly on a matter of national importance.
“At the outset, I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to the Chief Justice, Sir Albert Palmer, for dealing with this case on an expedited basis. The Government recognises that in times of political and legal uncertainty, the exercise of judicial function is essential to uphold the rule of law. The efficiency with which the High Court has presided over this matter of national significance is highly commended.”
But the Prime Minister said the government has serious concerns with the ruling.
“However, having carefully considered the ruling and the orders made, it is the firm view of the Government that certain fundamental legal questions were not adequately dealt with in this judgment. Specifically, the ruling raises profound issues regarding the interpretation of constitutional mandates and the established boundaries of the separation of powers between the Executive and the Judiciary.”
Manele said the move to appeal is about protecting the Constitution and the Office of the Prime Minister.
“As Prime Minister, I hold a duty not only to the present administration but to the integrity of the Office of the Prime Minister and the constitutional framework of Solomon Islands for generations to come. It is essential that the powers of the Head of State, the advice of the Prime Minister, and the procedures of Parliament are balanced exactly as the framers of our Constitution intended.”
He confirmed instructions have been issued to escalate the matter.
“Therefore, I have instructed the Attorney General to appeal this decision to the Court of Appeal. It is necessary for the highest court in our land to provide a definitive ruling on these complex constitutional questions to ensure that the legal precedents set today do not inadvertently undermine the stability of our parliamentary democracy in the future.”
Manele said the government will follow the legal process.
“The Government remains committed to the legal process. Our decision to seek appellate review is a testament to our respect for the hierarchy of our judicial system and our desire for absolute legal certainty.”
He also called for calm as the legal process continues.
“I call on all Solomon Islanders to remain calm and peaceful. Let us allow the legal process to reach its finality through the Court of Appeal. I urge all citizens and leaders to maintain respect for our democratic institutions as we navigate these significant legal developments,” PM Manele said.
