by Georgina Maka’a
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has dismissed reports of a constitutional crisis, saying his government remains firmly in charge despite the mass resignation of Cabinet Ministers from the former GNUT Coalition Government.
Speaking at a media conference today, Manele described the current political upheaval as part of normal democratic practice under the Constitution.
He also confirmed that several Members of Parliament—including those not in government—have submitted a petition to the Governor-General asking Parliament to consider the Motion of No Confidence filed last week.
“Let me be absolutely clear: your Government remains in office under the Constitution and continues to discharge its full responsibilities,” Manele said.
He added that while leadership changes may occur within certain portfolios, government services and national operations will continue “without disruption.”
Manele said the resignations by some ministers and MPs were decisions made for personal and political reasons, which he said he respects.
He thanked those who have served as ministers and said the GNUT Government’s mandate for National Unity and Transformation goes beyond any one individual.
To ensure governance continues smoothly, Manele announced appointments including Ministers, Acting Ministers, and Supervising Ministers across key portfolios, naming:
- Hon. Manasseh Sogavare (MP for East Choiseul) – Deputy Prime Minister; Minister for National Planning & Development Coordination; Acting Minister for Commerce, Industries, Labour & Immigration
- Hon. Trevor Manemahaga (MP for Gao/Bugotu) – Minister for Environment, Climate Change & Disaster Management & Meteorology; Acting Minister for Infrastructure Development
- Hon. Alfred Tuasulia (MP for West Kwara’ae) – Minister for Communication & Aviation
- Hon. Nestor Giro (MP for Central Makira) – Minister for Agriculture & Livestock Development
- Hon. Mary Daniella Zae Garu (MP for West Guadalcanal) – Minister for Traditional Governance, Peace & Ecclesiastical Affairs
- Hon. Freda Tuki Soriocomua (MP for Temotu Vatud) – Minister for Justice & Legal Affairs
- Hon. Jimson Tanangada – Acting Minister for Mines, Energy, Rural Electrification
- Hon. Rexson Ramofafia – Acting Minister for Rural Development
- Hon. Bradley Tovosia – Supervising Minister for Health and Medical Services
- Hon. Makario Tagini – Supervising Minister for Public Service
- Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele – Supervising Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade
Manele said all ministries are fully covered and Cabinet remains operational, continuing to meet and make decisions required for the administration of government.
Manele added that, under the Constitution, a Prime Minister’s parliamentary support is only determined through a Motion of No Confidence brought before Parliament.
“The Constitution is clear: the confidence of Parliament in a Prime Minister is tested and determined only through a motion of no confidence on the floor of Parliament,” he said.
He also responded to claims of a new political majority, noting that public statements and photographs are only a snapshot, while a parliamentary vote is the constitutional measure.
According to Manele, the Governor-General will act according to the Constitution, including on advice related to convening Parliament, and that all processes will continue to uphold the integrity of the constitutional framework.
[ENDS]
