THERE were sighs, cheers and tears of jubilation as Governor General, Sir Frank Kabui announced Manasseh Sogavare as the country’s 10th Prime Minister, following a secret ballot held at Parliament House yesterday.
Manasseh Sogavare, supported by the Democratic Coalition for Change (DCC) won the election by 31 votes to 19 for Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands People’s Democratic Coalition (SIPDC) to become the new Prime Minister of Solomon Islands.
A small crowd gathered at the hilltop looking down on Parliament House were already in raptures as soon as Sir Frank walked out with new Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare to make the announcement.
“This was the result all of us were looking forward to for the past two weeks or so.
“All of us want Manasseh Sogavare to be our Prime Minister and with this result, it surely shows us that our prayers have been answered and that we are now looking forward to a better and brighter future for Solomon Islands,” most of the bystanders at the hilltop said.
Looking down from Parliament House right in the heart of Point Cruz, cheers of jubilation were heard following the announcement whilst most of the vehicles driving to and fro were tooting their horns, celebrating Mr Sogavare’s victory.
“Manasseh Sogavare is the leader this nation needs and after today’s (yesterday’s) election, he is one who will be leading us the next four years,” were the general remarks from the public recieved.
Police Commissioner, Frank Prendergast has hailed the public cooperation and support rendered toward police and the respect people have shown toward the democratic process of elections.
“I would want to acknowledge the general public for their cooperation and support toward the process of democracy and toward the police that has enabled us to go through a very peaceful National General Election and now the Prime Minister’s Election,” Mr Prendergast said.
Meanwhile Mr Sogavare was sworn in at Government House yesterday.
He is expected to announce his Deputy and various Ministers within the next few days.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
