10 Sep 2012

Solomon Islands opposition confirms leadership challenge

1:50 pm on 10 September 2012

The leader of the Opposition in Solomon Islands, Dr Derek Sikua, has confirmed he will challenge the leadership of Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo in a motion of no confidence this Friday.

Dr Sikua says he has the full support of the opposition and independent MPs who want to see Mr Lilo step down because they are concerned with his actions and decisions.

Mr Lilo earlier told the Solomon Star he welcomes the motion, and is confident it will be defeated on the floor of parliament.

The paper reports Mr Lilo saying the motion is nothing but a waste of time because his government is intact.

The mayor of the Honiara City Council, Israel Maeoli, also faces a motion of no confidence this week after accusations of incompetence and weak leadership.