SOLOMON ISLANDS HAS ITS 12TH PRIME MINISTER ELECTED

Solomon Islands now has its new Prime Minister.

He is Manasseh Damukana Sogavare.

The East Choiseul MP-elect won the country’s top government position in a one ballot run today.

Governor General Sir Frank Ofagioro Kabui declared Mr Sogavare’s victory outside the Parliament’s East gate soon after his election this morning.

“There was a one ballot run being the first one. There were 50 members of parliament present and voted. Jeremiah Manele polled 19 votes whilst Honourable Manasseh Sogavare polled 31 votes and 26 being the absolute majority 31 votes is far beyond the absolute majority, so now today I would like to announce to you our new Prime Minister is the Honourable Manasseh Sogavare, thank you.”

Meanwhile, in his victory speech, Prime Minister-elect Manasseh Sogavare says he is humbled by the mandate placed upon his shoulder to lead the country.

“I am very humbled by the mandate that parliament has placed upon my shoulders once again to lead our beloved country Solomon Islands, and I would also like to take this opportunity to solemnly declare before the nation that I am recommitting the government and this country I lead into the hands of the Almighty God, but allow me first to salute the MP for Kia Havulei for the courage he has shown in coming this far. He displays an enormous audacity as a first time parliamentarian.”

SIBC News understands the 12th Solomon Islands Prime Minister will soon announce his cabinet.