Matthew Wale is the new prime minister of Solomon Islands after winning a vote in the Pacific island nation's parliament.
Matthew Wale is the new prime minister of Solomon Islands after winning a vote in the Pacific island nation's parliament this morning. Mr Wale won a secret ballot of MPs, 26 to 22, over former foreign affairs minister Peter Shanel Agovaka after former prime minister Jeremiah Manele was removed in a no-confidence vote last week.
Mr Wale, a long-time opposition leader who has been in parliament for two decades, was a vocal critic of the 2022 security pact Solomon Islands signed with China. At one point he called to revoke it; however, most political watchers expect him to continue with the status quo in his country's relations with China and Australia.
Solomon Islands is set to have a new leader next week, with prime minister Jeremiah Manele voted out of office after a fiery debate in parliament. Speaking outside parliament after the vote this morning, Mr Wale flagged a new direction for the country, saying "change is coming".
"The government that I lead will do its utmost to serve. Please help keep us accountable and responsible.
"We take government at a difficult time, given what is happening throughout the world. We are not immune from the impasse of these geopolitical events.
"Fellow Solomon Islanders, change is coming. These changes are necessary and may be painful. I ask that you join with your government by putting your hand to the plough. "
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale Peter Shanel Peter Shanel Agovaka
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