Malaita Province's political row resolved: Premier Irosaea

Malaita Premier Richard Na'amo Irosaea says he has re-gained the support of the majority of the Provincial Assembly members.

He told SIBC News that of the 16 members whose names appear in the Solomon Star newspaper yesterday, most of them have re-joined his government.

Premier Irosaea says those who were forced to resign under duress have re-joined, except five executive members who have been replaced with new provincial ministers.

"The members that have resigned and replaced are: Jim Manewai, Robert Madeo, Willie Isui, Isaac Houiata and Honourable John De'ohu. The other who resigned under duress, as soon as the resignation letters were delivered to me, they came and told me to ignore the letters."

Premier Irosaea thanks those who have prayed for the situation to ensure a stable political situation in the Province.

Mr Irosaea says he appeals to the provincial assembly members to cooperate to help develop Malaita.

Meanwhile, the Auki-based Government Communications Unit Officer, Brian Wanga reports that the five executive members who resigned have been replaced.

He says the five members are the same one's that tried to oust Premier Irosaea in a motion of no confidence in February this year.

Mr Wanga says the Premier has appoint new members to replace those who resigned.

"Robert Madeo of Buma was replaced by Fraza Bulesau of Radefasu/Kwaimela as the new Minister of Lands and Housing. Willie Isui of West Baegu and Fataleka was replaced by Ronnie Mae, who is now the new Minister for Works. Isaac Houiata of Tae Ward has been replaced by the new Minister for Health, Paul Ina Leong of Auki. Jim Manewai of Mareho, West Are'Are was replaced by Philip Taloinao of Fo'ondo and John De'ohu was replaced by Erickson Otia of Fauabu."

Source: SIBC