Solomon Islands PM ousted in parliamentary no-confidence vote

HONIARA - Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was removed from office on Thursday after the National Parliament passed a motion of no-confidence by a narrow margin of 26 votes to 22.

The vote ended Manele's two-year tenure and dissolved the 24-month-old government of national unity and transformation. Two members of parliament (MPs) were absent, with 48 of the 50-seat parliament participating.

The motion was tabled by a new coalition led by Frederick Kologeto, MP for South Vella Lavella of the People's First Party. It cited ongoing political instability since Manele's election in 2024.

Parliament has adjourned sine die to allow nominations from government and opposition benches, enabling MPs to rally support for preferred candidates. Manele will remain as prime minister until a date for electing a new leader is set.