Snyder Rini, Solomon Islands’ shortest-serving Prime Minister and one of its longest-serving parliamentarians, has died at the age of 77.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele officially announced Rini’s passing in Parliament this afternoon, describing him as a statesman who served with distinction and dedication throughout his career.

In his obituary statement, Prime Minister Manele said Late Rini dedicated over two decades of service to this nation, having been first elected into parliament in 1997.

“Throughout his career, he held several key ministerial portfolios, including finance and treasury, education and human resources development, and national planning,” the PM said.

In April 2006, Snyder Rini was elected as the 8th Prime Minister of Solomon Islands. His time in office was short-lived, lasting just over a week, as it was met with public outcry and unrest over allegations of foreign interference in the election process.

Rini resigned ahead of a motion of no confidence, but his appointment and the events that followed marked a turning point in the country’s democratic development.

“The challenges he faced during that time tested the resilience of our young democracy and highlighted the enduring strength of our people in the pursuit of peace and stability.

“Rini addressed the situation at the time with a sense of humility. We acknowledge and appreciate his contributions to the development of Solomon Islands and his commitment to public service.

“Death is an inevitable part of life and today we honour his memory and the legacy he leaves behind,” the Prime Minister told Parliament.

The Prime Minister, on behalf of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), extended condolences to Late Rini’s family, the people of Marovo, and all who worked with him.

“We’ve lost a leader, a colleague, and a man who committed his life to public service. May he rest in peace,” the Prime Minister concluded.

After delivering his statement, the PM invited Members of Parliament to stand in a moment of silence in honour of the late leader.

Before entering parliament, Late Rini was Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Natural Resources in 1989 and was Chairman of Solomon Islands National Provident Fund from 1990 to 1996.

He was also Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of National Planning and Development from 1994 to 1995 and Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries from January 1997 to June 1997.