World

Solomon Islands leader Sogavare won't renominate for PM

By AAP Newswire

Apr 29, 2024

Solomon Islands incumbent Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says he will not be a candidate when MPs vote for a new prime minister, with his political party to back former foreign minister Jeremiah Manele instead.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

The two major opposition parties in the Solomon Islands struck a coalition deal on Saturday as they vie with Sogavare's party to form a government after an election delivered no clear winner.

The April 17 election was the first since Sogavare struck a security pact with China in 2022, inviting Chinese police into the Pacific Islands archipelago and drawing the nation closer to Beijing.

The election result is being watched by China, the US and neighbouring Australia because of the potential impact on regional security.

Election results on Wednesday showed Sogavare's OUR party won 15 of the 50 seats in parliament, while the opposition CARE coalition has 20.

Independents and micro parties won 15 seats, and courting the independents will be the key to reaching the 26 seats needed to form a government.

Sogavare announced he would not be a candidate for prime minister.

MPs are expected to vote on May 8.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press