One day after securing the nation’s top political job, newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Wale has hit the ground running, swearing in the first batch of his Cabinet ministers at Government House.
The rapid appointments signal the new administration’s urgency to stabilize the government and address pressing national issues.
Headlining the first wave of appointments is North-West Guadalcanal MP Francis MB Sade, who has been handed the crucial dual roles of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Public Service.
“It’s an exciting opportunity to work with the prime minister to lead this country. I have so much trust and confidence that we will work together with our cabinet ministers,” Sade told Journalists after taking his oath to serve at the Government House on Saturday.
Prime Minister Wale said he is also confident with the new coalition as first timers.
“As a first time Prime Minister, I do have a lot of confidence.
“We’re all very confident because we want to serve the country.
Prime Minister Wale’s initial lineup draws heavily from experienced hands and key coalition partners.
Former finance hand Harry Kuma returns to the portfolio of Commerce, Industries, Labour, and Immigration, while Central Kwara’ae’s Ricky Fuo’o is back at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development.
The following MPs have officially taken their oaths for specific ministerial portfolios:
- Francis MB Sade – Deputy Prime Minister/Minister for Public Service
- Harry Kuma – Minister for Commerce, Industries, Labour, & Immigration
- Clezy Rore – Minister for Justice & Legal Affairs
- Fredrick Kologeto – Minister for Communication & Aviation
- Ricky Fuo’o – Minister for Infrastructure Development
- Franklyn Derek Wasi – Minister for Agriculture & Livestock
- James Bonunga – Minister for Culture & Tourism
The presence of household political figures like Gordon Darcy Lilo, Rick Houenipwela, and Peter Kenilorea Junior indicates that the Wale-led government boasts one of the most experienced coalition in recent political history.
With the first tier of the executive branch now active, the Wale government’s immediate challenge will be addressing the country’s tight fiscal situation and concluding the remaining cabinet selections without upsetting coalition dynamics.
A second swearing-in ceremony is expected on Sunday at Government House to fill the vacant slots, including the critical portfolios of Finance and Treasury, Foreign Affairs, and Health.
Meanwhile, he stated that his government don’t want outside foreign business interests.
“We want the Government of Solomon Islands to be for the people of Solomon Islands, for national interest.That’s going to be the focus,” PM Wale said.
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