The Solomon Islands opposition leader has officially tended his resignation to the Speaker of Parliament.
In a letter, the former opposition leader Steve Abana says he has reached an understanding with members of the opposition to relinquish the leadership.
Mr Abana says he accepts that installing a new leader, as demanded by MP Douglas Ete and other colleagues, will enhance the political aspirations of the opposition.
He says some opposition members believe his holding on to the leadership would deter a move by ten government ministers to join the opposition, with a view to lodging a motion of no confidence against the Prime Minister.
He says the internal power struggle within the group in the last seven months has eroded trust and confidence.
