A man from Malaita Province has called on the 14 Members of Parliament representing the province to support Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele amidst discussions on social and mainstream media regarding potential political instability.
The man expressed confidence in the leadership of Manele, whom he referred to as a “humble son of Isabel,” and urged MPs to allow him to continue his leadership.
“During the Malaita Second Appointed Day, the Prime Minister informed us of upcoming donor-funded projects for roads and infrastructure. We are now beginning to see some of these projects getting off the ground,” he said.
He added that it is important for MPs to give Manele a chance to fulfill the promises made to the people of Malaita, noting that past Prime Ministers had come to Auki, made grand promises, but failed to deliver on them.
In a related matter, a woman from East Malaita has called on MP Manasseh Maelanga to explain the status of the incomplete mini-hospital project at Tatali.
She pointed out that no progress has been made, despite Maelanga having secured funding from China for the hospital’s construction. The Solomon Star understands that the delays have been due to a lack of funding and land disputes.
Meanwhile, political observers have expressed varying views on the unfolding situation. One observer suggested that the political tension would eventually subside.
“They will likely rein in Bradley Tovosia’s authority—perhaps requiring that all decisions within the Ministry of Mines be vetted by Cabinet or a sub-committee,” the observer speculated. Deputy Prime Minister Tovosia has faced significant criticism, particularly for his handling of issues related to mineral exports. Last week, he was heavily scrutinized by the Opposition.
Despite this, the observer noted that the political landscape is complex. “There isn’t really a clear ‘good’ side to align with,” he remarked, citing the unpopularity of Opposition Leader Matthew Wale, as well as Gordon Darcy Lilo, who has little support. He also mentioned Peter Kenilorea Junior, the Leader of the Independent Group in Parliament, who has his own agenda but has lost political backing.
Key figures in the current dynamics include:
Manasseh Maelanga, who has ambitions to become Prime Minister.
Former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who still harbors resentment toward Tovosia and Minister Shannel, as well as the current Prime Minister, although his animosity toward Wale and Lilo is even stronger.
Finally, the observer suggested that Chachabule’s PFP party would likely remain with the current coalition, as they too have unresolved issues with Matthew Wale.