SOLOMON ISLANDS PM SURVIVES OUSTER ATTEMPT

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale has survived an attempt to remove his government after a no-confidence motion against his administration was withdrawn.

The motion was introduced by former Home Affairs Minister Manasseh Maelanga, who had been dismissed from government as political tensions grew and lawmakers shifted between the government and opposition.

Following the withdrawal of the motion, Wale adjourned Parliament indefinitely on Monday, effectively preventing another immediate no-confidence challenge. He said lawmakers were expected to return before Christmas to consider and pass the national budget.

Wale became prime minister in May 2026 after Jeremiah Manele lost a no-confidence vote. Since taking office, his government has moved to strengthen ties with Australia and the United States while reviewing a security agreement previously reached with China.

The political dispute has attracted wider regional attention because of the Solomon Islands’ strategic position and its relations with China, Australia and the United States.

The latest crisis also forced Wale to leave the Pacific Islands Forum summit in Palau to deal with the political challenge at home.

With Parliament now adjourned, Wale’s government has gained more time to pursue proposed reforms, including changes to the mining sector and plans for free education.