Four political parties signed a Coalition Agreement in Honiara this morning with the intention of forming the next government.

But they only have 20 members – still short of the required minimum of 26 needed to form a new government.

The four political parties consist of the three parties that make up CARE, with the Solomon Islands United Party.

“The signing is a commitment made by the Party leaders in response to the cries of the people in this country for a change in government and leadership,” the group said in a statement issued after the signing ceremony.

“Our group is responding to the cries and wishes of our people to take back Solomon Islands and to bring back confidence in the leadership and the governing of our country,” the statement added.

“It is a show of solidarity and commitment for real and meaningful change.

“We appeal to all newly elected independent MPs voted on a mandate for change to join us. 

“Let us take back Solomon Islands.”

Party leaders that signed the agreement are Peter Kenilorea of United Party, Matthew Wale of Solomon Islands Democratic Party, Rick Houenipwela of Democratic Alliance Party and Daniel Waneoroa of Umi for Change (U4C).

CARE commands a total of 13 MPs whilst SIUP has seven.

Meanwhile, OUR Party, which came up with 15 members in the last election, is expected to partner with Solomon Islands People’s First Party (SIPFP), which has three MPs, to form the next government.

OUR Party leader and caretaker prime minister Manasseh Sogavare has told the national broadcaster they are in the advance stage of forming their coalition with People’s First Party.

Nominations for the prime minister’s election will open on May 1 and close on May 3.

Election of the prime minister will be held on May 8.