Destined for servitude

At the helm of Solomon Islands politics, Rick Houenipwela became the country’s 17th PrimeMinister.He came into power after his predecessorManasseh Sogavarewas voted out. This change in leadership came barely a year to go before the country’s next election scheduled for 2019. He spoke to Mereseini Marau-Totoka about his new appointment.

IB: How are you settling in as Prime Minister of Solomon Islands?

PM Houenipwela: Very well. I am supported by a solid collation of four political parties with my own party of eleven members.

IB: Were you expecting this Mr Prime Minister, that one day you will become the leader of Solomon Islands?

PM Houenipwela: Yes indeed – when I was elected into Parliament I look forward to the opportunity to serve my country in that capacity one day, although I did not think it would (happen) in my second term.

IB: You made a name for yourself as a bold and shrewd manager of public finances during your term as Governor of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands. Should we expect a similar kind of legacy during your term as PM?

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