In a significant development highlighting the South Pacific island nation's ongoing engagement with China, Solomon Islands lawmakers have elected former Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele as the new prime minister. Manele's election suggests a continuation of close ties between the Solomon Islands and China, with his commitment to governing with integrity and prioritizing national interests.

During his inaugural speech outside the National Parliament of Solomon Islands, Manele vowed to fulfill his responsibilities diligently and with integrity, prioritizing the well-being of the Solomon Islands people and the country itself. The secret ballot resulted in Manele receiving 31 votes while Matthew Wale, the opposing candidate who led the previous parliament's opposition, received 18 votes, as announced by Governor General David Vunagi.

The withdrawal of former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, known for his pro-Beijing stance, from the race and his endorsement of Manele as their party's candidate further indicates the Solomon Islands' inclination to maintaining a similar direction. Sogavare had aspired to unprecedented consecutive four-year terms as prime minister, during which China's influence in the Solomon Islands grew substantially. Sogavare had switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to Beijing and sealed a secret security pact, sparking concerns regarding the Chinese navy's expanding presence in the region.

In his address, Manele also urged against post-election violence, highlighting the past instances when violence and destruction followed prime ministerial elections. He emphasized the need to respect and uphold the democratic process, setting an example for future generations.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia congratulated Manele on his election, emphasizing the close and interconnected relationship between Australia and the Solomon Islands. Despite the bilateral deal with Beijing signed in 2022, Sogavare had maintained Australia as the preferred security partner for his country. Currently, Chinese police trainers are present in the capital city of Hoinara, while Australian police have been maintaining public order in Honiara since late 2021 under a 2017 bilateral security treaty.

Meg Keen, Director of the Pacific Islands program for the Sydney-based think tank Lowy Institute, described Manele as a leader who will maintain close relations with China while being less confrontational towards the West. Keen highlighted Manele's previous role as foreign minister, orchestrating the security deal with China that alarmed Western nations. She also noted that Manele, with his experience at the UN and engagement with Western countries, is well acquainted with Western diplomacy.

Sogavare's withdrawal from the race was seen as a response to his party's loss of several lawmakers in the recent election, indicating a demand for change among voters.

The election of Jeremiah Manele as the prime minister signifies the Solomon Islands' intention to reinforce their ties with China, raising questions about the future trajectory of the country's foreign policy and its implications for regional dynamics.