The Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Mannish Sogavare is standing by two cabinet ministers accused of inciting last month's violent riots.
Mr Sogavare has handed Charles Dausabea the police and national security portfolio and Nelson Ne'e has been given tourism and culture.
Both were arrested and charged with fomenting the riots that erupted last month after Snyder Rini was elected prime minister amid corruption allegations.
Mr Rini was forced to resign.
Mr Sogavare says that at this stage, the charges against the ministers are unsubstantiated and unproven.
Meanwhile, the Australian foreign Minister, Alexander Downer has condemned the appointments as a surprising and disappointing move by the new government.
And, he says for Mr Dausabea to be appointed responsible for the police is a matter of deep concern.
He says he also would take the matter up with the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission in the Solomon Islands.
