Solomon Islands Prime Minister Reportedly Resigns
The prime minister of the Solomon Islands has resigned ahead of a no-confidence vote forced by armed rebels who seized this capital, local media said today.
Solomons Minister of State Alfred Sasako said Prime Minister Bartholomew Ulufa’alu resigned late Tuesday but would remain in charge of the country until Parliament meets Thursday to elect a new leader, according to local radio and Australian news reports.
On Tuesday, Ulufa’alu said he would resign despite fears that his quitting would ignite a new round of rebel fighting that could splinter this South Pacific nation.
Australian Associated Press reported from Honiara that Sasako said Ulufa’alu’s Cabinet will stay in place until Parliament elects a new prime minister but that Ulufa’alu will implement no policy decisions.
It was not clear whether the head of state, Governor-General John Eni Lapli, had received Ulufa’alu’s resignation.
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