PM Manele calls for calm and respect to democratic process amidst current political situation
By Alfred Pagepitu
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has called on the people of Solomon Islands to remain calm, be respectful amidst the current political situation.
Manele made the statement when he moved to adjourn Parliament this morning to May 6, 2025, citing the current political situation and the pending motion of no confidence.
“I move that at its adjournment on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Parliament shall adjourn to Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
“We all know the current political situation. I think it is important that we deal with this.
“A motion of no confidence has been noticed to be moved on Tuesday, May 6. I think there is some sense of urgency given to the current situation.
“I would like to appeal to the good people of the Solomon Islands, including Honiara, to remain calm and respect the democratic process that will be underway, including on Tuesday, May 6, when the motion of no confidence is moved,” Prime Minister Manele said.
The Leader of the Opposition raised concerns about the Prime Minister’s mandate and the motion’s determination, but the Speaker clarified the Prime Minister’s authority until removed from office.
“I just wish to put on record that the Prime Minister lacks the mandate of the House, and therefore should not be in a position to determine motions, determine by way of motions what the House should be doing. I wish that point to be recorded,” Wale said
In response, Speaker Paterson Oti said the Prime Minister is still Prime Minister until he is removed from office, and therefore I have given permission for him, under Standing Order 26-1, to move the motion as required.
“Yes, once again, I reiterate my call for the general public to respect the democratic process in view of the fact that the motion of no confidence has been noticed and it will mature for debate on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
“I will not step down before that date. I will allow that motion to be moved on the 6th of May and then we’ll debate it and we’ll see how it goes,” Prime Minister Manele said.
The motion was supported by the default bench, and after contributions from various members, the Parliament voted in favor of the adjournment to May 6, 2025.
The Prime Minister reiterated his stance on not stepping down before the motion of no confidence on May 6, urging respect for the democratic process.
The motion was then put to a vote, with the majority in favor, leading to the adjournment of Parliament until May 6, 2025.
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