FORMER Central Bank Governor Rick Hou is returning home to contest the upcoming national elections.
Mr Hou, who is currently an adviser at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, United States, announced his intentions to friends this week.
He said he is resigning in two weeks to return home for the election.
Mr Hou will challenge caretaker Foreign Affairs and Trade minister William Haomae for the Small Malaita seat.
That seat is poised to be fiercely contested this round, with former foreign affairs official turned businessman Rudolf Dora, also a likely candidate.
Another intending candidate vying for the seat is former Malaita premier now businessman Henry Star Dora.
There are also few others who have expressed their intentions to vie for the seat.
The Solomon Star understands Mr Hou is returning to contest at the request of his community leaders and chiefs.
Mr Hou, who held the Central Bank governor's job for three terms, comes from the big village of Riverside.
He Joined the World Bank in 2008 after 25 years with the Central Bank.
In an email he sent to friends on his impending resignation, Mr Hou said: "Of course I am returning home to Solomon Islands.
"Some of you may not be aware of ambitions to contest in the upcoming general elections.
"Twelve months ago it was the most unlikely of my options after World Bank - least of all to make a career as a politician in the current environment.
"As many of you know, the economic situation in Solomon Islands has been depressing: I was in no hurry to return.
"However, long story short, this is exactly the reason for my return - even a little earlier than planned."
Contacted yesterday, Mr Haomae said: "Everyone has the freedom to contest the election."
He declined to comment further.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
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