Solomons opposition off to courts to solve impasse
The ongoing stalemate between the “toxic” Solomon Islands government and hardened opposition could be resolved in the courts.
Opposition forces, which gained a majority after several departures from Jeremiah Manele’s coalition, are calling on the prime minister to test parliament’s numbers.
A motion of no confidence awaits Mr Manele when he calls MPs to session in Honiara.
But with no session currently planned and Mr Manele unwilling to reconvene MPs, the 28-strong opposition says it is now turning its sights to the judiciary.
In the statement made by the opposition bloc, it was said: “This legal action is aimed at protecting the rule of law.”
The application essentially asks the Supreme Court to order the resumption of parliament, taking into account “whether the actions or inactions of the relevant authorities are within the limits of their legal authority and responsibility.”
The opposition, led by Matthew Wale, says its preferred outcome is for Mr Manele to recall parliament voluntarily.
“Parliament is our country’s highest democratic institution and should be allowed to function unimpeded,” the statement said. The statement was included.
“The continued delay in convening parliament without a clear and justified reason does not serve the national interest.”
“Rather, it serves only the interests of a narrow minority at the expense of the broader democratic will of the people.”
Its 28 members include former prime minister Darcy Gordon Lilo, former foreign minister Peter Shanel Agovaka and influential MPs Fredrick Kologeto, Manasseh Maelanga and Peter Kenilorea.
Opposition MPs continue to publish photos of the group gathering together, showing their strength in numbers.
“Our determination is strong. We are the government in waiting,” Mr. Kenilorea said.
Mr Agovaka, who could emerge as prime minister if the no-confidence motion is passed, said relations in the coalition had completely deteriorated.
“When the cabin becomes toxic, that’s a problem. We can’t work together,” he said, according to In-Depth Solomons.
“We cannot meet. If he (Mr. Manele) enters the room, I come out. Or if I enter the room, he comes out. This is poisonous.”
Earlier this month, Mr Manele told a news conference that there was no urgent reason for parliament to meet and that it would meet next in May or June.
A dozen ministers left the coalition in early March due to instability and weak leadership.
Mr Manele replaced them with new ministers, including his deputy Manasseh Sogavare, and said the administration was continuing as normal.
The 58-year-old leader has survived two no-confidence motions during his two-year term, but this political crisis appears to be a more serious threat to his premiership.
