Nori joins cabinet as new minister for women

BY NED GAGAHE

The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) ushered in new energy and leadership yesterday as Frederick Kologeto was officially sworn in as Deputy Prime Minister, while Cathy Nori joined Cabinet as Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at Government House 2pm yesterday and was officiated by Governor-General, His Excellency Sir Reverend David Tiva Kapu.

Kologeto, the MP for South Vella La Vella and leader of the Solomon Islands People’s First Party (SIPFP), retains his portfolio as Minister for Civil Aviation.

His elevation to DPM reflects his increasing influence within the GNUT coalition, which includes the OUR Party, Kandere Party, and SIPFP, with SIPFP holding eight seats in Parliament.

In a move hailed as a step forward for gender representation, Cathy Nori, the MP for Maringe Kokota, was also sworn in.

Nori replaces Freda Tuki MP for Temotu Vatud who resigned along with 10 MPs last week following the political movements.

Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele welcomed both appointments, saying they bring “strength and balance” to the executive arm of government.

“These appointments demonstrate our commitment to inclusive governance and to delivering results for all Solomon Islanders,” the PM said.

Speaking to local media after her swearing-in, Minister Nori expressed gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility.

“I am humbled actually to be appointed to take up the responsibility as the Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs,” she said.

“I am here to deliver what the policies of the government require to be implemented in the ministry. I will do my best. That is why we are in Parliament — to serve our people.”

When asked about the challenges of politics as a woman, Nori spoke with conviction:

“Life is never meant to be an easy ride, you have challenges, and so it’s how we stand in those challenges that counts.

“Nothing should move you if you have faith in God that He will direct you where you go.” She said.

As of last night, GNUT holds a narrow lead with 26 MPs, ahead of the Motion of No Confidence scheduled for Tuesday, 6th May.

The Opposition trails with 23 MPs.

Sources close to Island Sun indicate that GNUT expects to gain further ground, with more MPs from the Opposition side expected to cross the floor before the motion is tabled in Parliament tomorrow.

In a significant political maneuver, GNUT swore in three new ministers, all defectors from the Opposition.

The appointments began on Friday night with Daniel Waneoroa, MP for North Malaita, who took office as the new Minister for Rural Development.

By Saturday midday, Derrick Manu’ari, MP for West Makira, was sworn in as Minister for Mines, Energy & Rural Electrification, followed by Ricky Fuo’o, MP for Central Kwara’ae, who became Minister for Infrastructure Development.

Insiders told Island Sun last night that the GNUT government anticipates further defections from the Opposition bench today, potentially strengthening its position ahead of the vote.

Meanwhile, the Opposition is also actively lobbying behind the scenes.

Attempts to reach key Opposition MPs for comment were unsuccessful, with several declining to speak on the matter.

The upcoming motion of no confidence was lodged earlier this week by Central Honiara MP Gordon Darcy Lilo and is expected to be formally presented in Parliament tomorrow.

The motion follows a dramatic walkout last week by 10 MPs led by former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who cited leadership concerns with both Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and former Deputy Prime Minister Bradley Tovosia.

Tovosia has since resigned from his ministerial roles but remains on the government bench as a backbencher.

Tomorrow’s no-confidence motion is set to determine the immediate future of the GNUT administration.

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