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Solomon Islands Government Swears In Three Ministers After Cabinet Portfolio Realignment

Three Members of Parliament were sworn in at Government House following a cabinet portfolio realignment in the Solomon Islands, reflecting adjustments within the governing coalition.

Rollen Seleso, MP for South Guadalcanal, was appointed Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, replacing Wayne Ghemu, MP for Ranonga–Simbo.

Seleso receives a hand-shake from Sir Kapu after swearing in as the new Minister for Provincial Government.
Ghemu when he was sworn in as the new Minister for Environment

Ghemu was reassigned as Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Disaster Management, taking over from Malaita Outer Islands MP Polycarp Paea, who was dropped from the role by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

Kumi is being sworn in as the new Minister for Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs

Stephen Kumi, MP for Temotu Nende, was sworn in as Minister for Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs, replacing Rennell and Bellona (RenBel) MP John Tuhaika Jr., who was also dropped from the portfolio.

Both Paea and Tuhaika Jr. belong to the Peoples First Party (PFP), a partner within the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) coalition.

PM Manele and Governor General (GG), Sir David Tiva Kapu flanked by government ministers and officials during the swearing in ceremony at the Government House on Tuesday 10th February 2026.

In a statement, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said the adjustments followed consultations with coalition partners and Members of Parliament to ensure Cabinet responsibilities fairly reflect the makeup of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), giving due consideration to party representation and strengthening coordination for effective delivery of the 2026 programme of work.

“As we move into full implementation of the 2026 Budget, it is important that ministerial portfolios are aligned to support strong coordination and clear leadership across key sectors,” Prime Minister Manele said.

“These adjustments strengthen our collective capacity to deliver on the commitments we have made to our people.,” he added.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Ministers and thanked them for their service.

He affirmed that both former Ministers Polycarp Paea and John Tuhaika Jnr remain as members of the GNUT and will continue to play a pivotal role to contribute in GNUT broader policy direction and the implementation of the 2026 programme.

The Government remains focused on stability, unity and delivering practical development outcomes across Solomon Islands.

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  • Ronald Toito'ona

    Ronald Flier Toito’ona is a distinguished Solomon Islands Investigative journalist. He is part of In-depth Solomons, an investigative newsroom based in Honiara dedicated to transparency and accountability.

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