East Malaita Member of Parliament(MP) and Minister of Home Affairs, Fr Manasseh Maelanga, dismissed suggestions that his motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Matthew Wale is designed to derail ongoing investigations.
In his statement, Maelanga said he fully supports independent inquiries into the 33 West Rennell bauxite shipments, Pacific Games expenditure, the Economic Stimulus Package and any other matters currently before the relevant authorities.
“These investigations must continue independently and without political interference, regardless of the motion or its outcome,” he said.
“The motion should not hinder, delay or influence the work of any investigating authority.”
The MP formally gave the motion of no confidence to the National Parliament on Saturday, 29 August.
He said the reasons behind the move are clearly set out in the notice, pointing to what he described as repeated unilateral decisions on matters of national importance without proper Cabinet consultation or approval.
“The motion is about confidence in the Prime Minister’s leadership,” he said. “The investigations are separate matters and should be allowed to proceed according to law.”
Maelanga said the concerns raised go to the heart of collective Cabinet responsibility, representative democracy and good governance.
“The Constitution provides a clear and lawful process for members of Parliament to openly and peacefully consider questions of national leadership,” he said. “This motion allows Parliament to carry out that responsibility.”
Whatever the outcome, he insisted, the country would move forward peacefully, government services would continue, and members would work together in the national interest.
The motion, he said, asks Parliament to decide one fundamental question — whether the Prime Minister continues to command the confidence of its members. Detailed reasons will be presented and debated on the floor of Parliament.
“Solomon Islanders understand the rules of democracy and respect the law,” he added. “I am confident that they will allow Parliament to consider this matter peacefully through the proper legal and constitutional process.”
