Stories from Honiara · SB

The Court of Appeal has ordered Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to convene parliament. The decision comes after Manille refused to convene Parliament following mass coalition government defections in March. Chief Justice Sir Elbin Palmer previously ruled that if the Prime Minister refuses to call Parliament, the Governor-General should do so. The current situation remains uncertain as observers await a formal call for Parliament to convene. The vote will be conducted via secret ballot with nominations for Prime Ministerial candidates allowed on the floor. Manille has until next Thursday to lobby members to secure enough support to avoid removal. Manila's refusal to convene Parliament after mass defections from his coalition. The ruling follows a period of minority government after a dozen ministers resigned in March.

Manille said the government will maintain strict respect for the independence of the judiciary. He will not call Parliament to meet until the Court of Appeal delivers its ruling.