Houenipwela sworn in as Prime Minister

Rick Houenipwela is officially the Prime Minister of Solomon Islands.

Mr Houenipwela was sworn in at the Government House today hours after his election victory in Parliament.

Acting Governor General Ajilon Nasiu conducted the swearing-in ceremony in the presence of Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer, Members of Parliament and senior Government officials.

Mr Houenipwela was elected with 33 votes to 16 votes over opposing candidate John Moffat Fugui, MP for Central Honiara.

During his speech after the election today, Mr Houenipwela said one important objective for his new government will be to stabilise the country’s ailing fiscal situation.

He said other priorities include restoring basic services to rural areas, especially health services that have not been offered for several years.

Mr Houenipwela is expected to announce his new cabinet line-up later this week.

By: Lowen Sei