20 Dec 2002

Solomon's prime minister calls for all MPs to work together

10:47 am on 20 December 2002

The Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Sir Allan Kemakeza has appealed to MPs to co-operate for the good of the country.

Sir Allan, who survived a challenge to his leadership on Wednesday has told parliamentarians to forget about their political differences because the country needs them to develop a better future.

He says MPs should feel it is their obligation to rebuild a country where people can again peacefully co-exist.

The Prime Minister says peace is necessary if investment is to be attracted to Solomon Islands.

Meanwhile former Prime Minister Bartholomew Ulufa'alu is urging MPs in the Government coalition to rethink their support of Sir Allan

He says now the no confidence vote has been defeated, the onus is on Government MPs to change the country's leadership.

Mr Ulufa'alu criticised the six MPs who had reportedly resigned from the Government earlier this week but who then voted for Sir Allan to help defeat the no confidence motion.