In a significant development in the Pacific region, Jeremiah Manele, the former Foreign Minister of Solomon Islands, has been elected as the new prime minister of the country on May 2, 2024. The election came after Manasseh Sogavare, another pro-Beijing leader who had previously held the position, failed to secure a majority in parliament following national elections.
Manele secured support from 50 lawmakers in Honiara for the prime minister position. His election marks a continuation of China's influence in Solomon Islands despite Sogavare's departure. The Chinese government has been extending its reach into the region through security agreements, causing concern among traditional powers like the United States and Australia.
The Solomon Islands election is significant for both China and the US as it could further strengthen Beijing's military aims across the Pacific. Jeremiah Manele was a former diplomat who played a key role in severing ties with Taiwan and establishing diplomatic relations with China in 2019.
The new prime minister has pledged to focus on improving the economy and progress after the coronavirus pandemic. He aims to form a government of national unity that will work towards these goals. Manele's election was closely watched by China, the US, and neighboring Australia due to its potential impact on regional security.
The rapid expansion of Chinese interests in Solomon Islands under Sogavare had raised alarm in the West. The former prime minister signed a security pact with Beijing in 2022, which was denounced by opposition leader Matthew Wale as selling out Solomon Islands to keep Beijing happy. Manele's election has been welcomed by Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who looks forward to working closely with him.
