Son Of Former Malaita Premier, Suidani Wins Provincial Seat In By-Election, Replacing Late Father

The political legacy of the late Daniel Suidani continues in Malaita Province as his son, Norman Suidani, has been officially declared the winner of the West Baegu-Fataleka Ward 5 by-election.

The announcement was made this afternoon in Auki following the completion of the counting process, which saw the younger Suidani secure the seat formerly held by his father.

The by-election was a significant event for the region, drawing voters eager to see the representation of Ward 5 restored in the Malaita Provincial Assembly.

Returning Officer for West Baegu-Fataleka By-Election, Sonia Fiumae, formalized the results this afternoon. In her official declaration, she confirmed the validity of the process and the success of the candidate.

“Now I, Sonia Fiumae, as Returning Officer for the West Baegu-Fataleka by-election, in Malaita Province, having completed the counting of votes and in accordance with the Provincial Assembly and Honourable City Council Election Regulation 2024, hereby declare that Norman Suidani, having received the highest number of valid votes, is duly elected as the member for West Baegu-Fataleka Provincial Assembly,” Ms. Fiumae stated.

The declaration brings to an end a period of vacancy for the ward. Ms. Fiumae also took the opportunity to commend the conduct of the candidates and the public during the democratic exercise.

“I congratulate the successful candidate and encourage all candidates and supporters to continue upholding peace, unity and respect for the democratic process,” she added.

The victory of Norman Suidani marks a poignant chapter in Malaitan politics, following the death of his father, Daniel Suidani, on October 21, 2025. A former school teacher, the elder Suidani rose to prominence as one of the Solomon Islands’ most influential and controversial provincial leaders.

• Rise to Power: Daniel Suidani served as the Premier of Malaita from 2019 to 2023, leading the Malaita Alliance for Reform and Advancement (MARA) government.

• The “Anti-China” Stance: He gained international recognition for his staunch opposition to the Solomon Islands’ 2019 decision to switch diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. Under his leadership, Malaita issued the “Auki Communiqué,” which effectively banned Chinese-funded projects in the province, citing concerns over sovereignty and debt.

• Political and Legal Battles: His tenure was marked by a tense standoff with the national government in Honiara. He was ousted in a February 2023 vote of no-confidence—a move his supporters claimed was orchestrated by the central government. Though later disqualified from his seat, a 2025 High Court ruling declared his removal unlawful, vindicating his position shortly before his passing at the age of 55.