HONIARA - Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was removed from office on Thursday after the National Parliament passed a motion of no-confidence by a narrow margin of 26 votes to 22.

The vote ended Manele's two-year tenure and dissolved the 24-month-old government of national unity and transformation. Two members of parliament (MPs) were absent, with 48 of the 50-seat parliament participating.

The motion was tabled by a new coalition led by Frederick Kologeto, MP for South Vella Lavella of the People's First Party. It cited ongoing political instability since Manele's election in 2024.

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Parliament has adjourned sine die to allow nominations from government and opposition benches, enabling MPs to rally support for preferred candidates. Manele will remain as prime minister until a date for electing a new leader is set.