SYDNEY: The Solomon Islands is poised to announce a national election next week for April, with the issue of security ties with China taking center stage as political parties kick off their campaigns in the Pacific Islands nation.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare’s decision to shift diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China shortly after assuming power in 2019, followed by the forging of a security pact with Beijing, has emerged as a contentious issue, sparking concerns from Washington and Canberra and igniting a race for influence in the strategically-located Pacific region.
Peter Kenilorea, a prominent figure from the opposition United Party, has called for a review of the China security pact and expressed intentions to re-establish diplomatic ties with Taiwan, according to the Solomon Star newspaper.
Opposition leader Matthew Wale, speaking at a campaign launch for a coalition of democratic parties, proposed the possibility of holding a referendum to determine the Solomon Islands’ relationship with China. He emphasized the need to assess the national interest amidst China’s status as a military and economic superpower.
Sogavare, in his campaign launch, highlighted the Pacific Games hosted in Honiara, showcasing stadiums donated by China as a significant achievement. His party pledged to reinforce ties with China through a ‘look North’ foreign policy while maintaining connections with traditional partners like Australia.
The official announcement of the election is expected on Feb. 20 by the country’s Governor-General, with polling anticipated to take place on April 17. Wale characterized this date as a day for accountability, criticizing Sogavare’s prioritization of the Pacific Games over essential healthcare services.
Wale also raised concerns about “elite capture” within the government, implying external influences undermining the interests of Solomon Islanders. While not explicitly naming China, previous revelations about Chinese funding distributed at the discretion of Sogavare’s office have drawn scrutiny.
Sogavare’s office has refuted allegations of using funds to maintain power, emphasizing transparency and accountability in governance.
