9 Dec 2014

Wrangling for portfolios underway in Solomon Islands

8:27 pm on 9 December 2014

The new prime minister of Solomon Islands, Manasseh Sogavare says he will announce the names of his deputy and cabinet ministers in the next few days.

Manasseh Sogavare

Manasseh Sogavare Photo: RNZI

Mr Sogavare's Democratic Coalition for Change government is made up of two parties; the Kadere Party and the United Democratic Party, and assignments of ministerial portfolios are already being negotiated.

Mr Sogavare has been Prime Minister on two previous occasions in 2000 and in 2006 but both of these terms were cut short -- the most recent time because of deteriorating relations with Australia.

Speaking on the steps of Parliament shortly after his election, Mr Sogavare had this message for international partners.

"To all our traditional partners and overseas friends and RAMSI we all recognise the challenge that lies ahead in building a stronger Solomon Islands.This is the task that demands our collective effort. And it is exactly for this reason that I am looking forward to building stronger and constructive partnerships with our traditional allies."

Solomon Islands' prime minister Manasseh Sogavare.

Solomon Islands Governor General Frank Kabui

Governor General Frank Kabui announces Manasseh Sogavare's appointment as PM Photo: RNZI