4 May 2006

New Solomons leader's election welcomed by women's groups

9:01 pm on 4 May 2006

The election today of new Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, was warmly welcomed by around two to three hundred people who had gathered outside parliament.

Mr Sogavare defeated his only rival for the top post, Fred Fono, by 28 votes to 22, to replace Snyder Rini in the post.

The vote comes the election of Mr Rini last month sparked riots and looting in Honiara.

Sarah Dyer, spokesperson for Women in Leadership, was outside parliament, part of a group organised by the national council of women.

"The result two weeks ago, people were not happy because that is not what they expected and that is why there was all the trouble, and then with the outcome the other way they were happy because they want a change and not the former government."