VOTERS in the West New Georgia/Vonavona constituency in Western Province are appealing to their Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. George Temahua, to leave his current political group and align with the coalition led by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.
In a strongly worded statement issued from Munda, constituents urged Hon. Temahua to distance himself from a group that includes some prominent figures who are connected to bad past actions related to the controversial handling of the country’s mining sector.
The statement claims that many voters in the constituency “generally dislike” these leaders, accusing them of past misconduct involving mineral prospectuses and the broader mining industry.
Constituents pointed to the case of Sumitomo Metal Mining Company — a reputable firm that was sidelined during previous administrations as an example of the alleged mismanagement.
They claimed credible companies like Sumitomo were pushed out because they refused to engage in corrupt practices.
Voters warned that it would not be in the best interest of the constituency for Hon. Temahua to remain associated with individuals they described as having “very shady pasts” concerning mining issues in the Solomon Islands.
“We urge Hon. Temahua to change course, rejoin the Manele-led Coalition, and work in the interest of his people.
“If he refuses, then he should seriously consider resigning,” one of the concern voters and prominent leader from Munda said.
The call comes as coalition alignments remain fluid following the 2024 National General Elections, with Solomon Islands voters showing increasing demand for transparency and accountability from their leaders.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
