Manasseh Sogavare Steps Down, Solomon Islands to Elect New Leader Amid China Ties Scrutiny
After a contentious tenure marked by deepening ties with China, Solomon Islands' PM Manasseh Sogavare will not seek re-election, setting the stage for a pivotal leadership vote.
- Manasseh Sogavare, known for his pro-China stance, announced he will not run for another term as Solomon Islands' Prime Minister.
- The Solomon Islands parliament is set to elect a new leader this Thursday, with former Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele as a key candidate.
- Sogavare's tenure was characterized by significant geopolitical shifts, including a controversial security pact with China in 2022.
- Opposition parties have formed a coalition aiming to challenge the pro-Beijing policies and secure enough support to form a government.
- The change in leadership comes at a critical time as the region faces increased international scrutiny over its strategic and diplomatic alignments.