20 Oct 2015

Solomons deputy PM Ete resigns

8:09 pm on 20 October 2015

Solomon Islands deputy prime minister, Douglas Ete, has resigned amid political instability.

PM Sogavare and his Deputy Douglas Ete listen to speeches at GBR

PM Sogavare and his Deputy Douglas Ete (left). Photo: RNZI Courtesy of SIG

The Solomon Star reports that frustrated government MPs are likely to support a possible no confidence motion to be moved in parliament against the prime minister, Manasseh Sogavare.

The paper reports that Mr Ete resigned on Sunday after learning about plans to remove him.

The prime minister's office says some opposition members are likely to cross the floor and take up portfolios that have been vacated.

Last week, Mr Sogavare told parliament that he would root out staff in his office who are leaking stories to the media.

The Prime Minister says if there are no checks on bad reporting, the Solomons risks creating a society with no respect for authority.