22 Dec 2014

Solomons swearing-in delayed

3:58 pm on 22 December 2014

The swearing in of the new Solomon Islands finance minister has reportedly been deferred until tomorrow amid claims on social media that the prime minister has already made his choice.

The Solomon Islands flag

The Solomon Islands flag Photo: RNZI

For the past week, there has been speculation over who Manasseh Sogavare would choose for the finance portfolio and the police portfolio.

Mr Sogavare had earlier released a statement to the media, saying he would be informing the Governor General of his choice of ministers today.

He said he had made up his mind after consultations with his cabinet and party members but stopped short of naming the new ministers.

The race for the finance position is between a former prime minister and finance minister, Snyder Rini and Mathew Wale who also has ministerial experience.

Our reporter says while social media reports claim Mr Rini has already been sworn in, Government House says the ceremony to legalise the appointments will not be held until 2:00 pm tomorrow.