Disillusioned GNUT politicians to lead walkout in a move that could trigger a no-confidence motion, according to an informed source
POLITICIANS in the ruling Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) are reportedly planning a walkout in a move which could trigger a no-confidence vote in Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele’s leadership.
“Yes, the air is thick with the news of the move, but it is up to the Government MPs who are dissatisfied with how things are to make the move. People are asking, will there be a no confidence motion in the government,” an informed source told Solomon Star on Sunday.
The move is connected with news last week that the GNUT government planned to down-size the 21-member Cabinet by at least six. Deputy Prime Minister Bradley Tovosia Smokey who was reported to be behind the move promptly denied the government was planning to remove six ministers.
The six Ministers named in the list earmarked for dismissal included former Deputy Prime Minister and MP for East Malaita, Manasseh Maelanga MP. Some of the ministers denied they were the source of the leak.
But the source told Solomon Star the MPs who threatened a walkout are aiming at two people in the ministerial hierarchy – Finance and Treasury Minister, Manasseh Sogavare MP and Deputy Prime Minister Tovosia.
“The government MPs are clearly disillusioned and they blame Hon Sogavare and Hon Tovosia for what is going on. The nation is going down economically but the government appear unconcerned and hopeless.
“Cost of foodstuffs has gone beyond the reach of ordinary workers. Roads in Honiara are in shambles and to top it all, the government is hopeless to deal with the situation.
“The government has not even achieved a single policy intention in its first 100-day in office, which ended last September,” the source said.
“It is important that the government do something. Deputy Prime Minister Tovosia should stop traveling like a foreign minister to help deal with the worsening situation.”
Mr. Tovosia last week appealed to the people of Solomon Islands to pray for the government. Caucus last week threw out the Draft Mineral Resources Bill because it failed to address the concerns of resources owners.
Parliament, which was adjourned last Friday is due to open for business on December 2 to debate the 2024/25 Appropriation Bill.
By Alfred Sasako
