The National Parliament of Solomon Islands today, Thursday 24th April commenced the Third Meeting of the 12th Parliament, with the ceremonial Speech from the Throne delivered by His Excellency the Governor General, Sir David Tiva Kapu.

The Governor General was formally invited by Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, in accordance with Standing Order 7(4), to open the session with the address on behalf of the Government.

The Speech from the Throne is a long-standing tradition in Solomon Islands’ democratic system, inherited from the Westminster model. 

It outlines the Government’s legislative agenda, policy priorities, and national goals for the year ahead. This practice is also observed in many other Commonwealth nations and marks the formal start of Parliament’s work for the session.

Although the 12th Parliament began in 2024, the commencement of the third meeting in 2025 signifies the start of a new parliamentary session. 

‘Each session is accompanied by a new speech that reflects the Government’s updated focus and intentions for the year.

It is important to note that the Speech from the Throne is not delivered by the Prime Minister — and never has been, either in Solomon Islands or in other Westminster-style democracies. Instead, it is presented by the Governor General, who represents the Head of State and serves as Head of the Executive under Section 30(1) of the Constitution.

While the content of the speech is prepared by the Government, it is delivered by the Governor General to Parliament — including to the Prime Minister and Cabinet — as a way of formally setting the tone and direction for the session. If the Governor General is unavailable, a constitutionally appointed representative, such as the Speaker of Parliament, may deliver the address on their behalf.

Following today’s speech, the Hon. Prime Minister will, on Monday 28 April, move a motion for the Speech in Reply, pursuant to Standing Order 7(6). 

This will allow Members of Parliament to respond, offer thanks to His Excellency, and—particularly for Ministers—elaborate on specific policies and legislative programmes highlighted in the address.

The opening of Parliament and the delivery of the Speech from the Throne is a key moment in the country’s democratic calendar, setting out the Government’s vision and path for the year ahead.

-OPMC