Solomon Islands power struggle intensifies as High Court fast-tracks constitutional challenge

The Solomon Islands’ deepening political standoff has now shifted firmly into the courts with the High Court moving quickly on a legal bid to force Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele to convene Parliament.

According to the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC), a directions hearing on Tuesday saw Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer push both sides to act with urgency, noting the national importance of the case.

The legal challenge has been filed by a new political coalition seeking clarity on the constitutional rules around calling Parliament.

At the centre of the case is a key question: whether the Prime Minister can delay convening Parliament or whether there is a legal requirement to do so within a set timeframe.

The Governor-General, Prime Minister, Speaker of Parliament, and Attorney-General have all been named as defendants.

In court, Justice Palmer said the matter is of public importance and directed both parties to expedite the usual court process.

A coalition of opposition, independents, and People First MPs are calling for Parliament to be convened as the political standoff in Solomon Islands deepens. Photo/Office of the Leader of the Opposition

He ordered the claimants to submit their sworn statements by the end of Tuesday, while the defendants must file their responses and supporting documents by Wednesday, SIBC reported.

This case comes as the Solomon Islands faces an ongoing political standoff, with growing pressure on Prime Minister Manele to call Parliament.

The outcome could shape how power is exercised at the highest level of government and set a precedent for how quickly Parliament must be convened in the future.

More broadly, the situation is being closely watched across the Pacific, where political stability and constitutional process remain key to public trust and regional confidence.

With filings due within days, the case is expected to move quickly.

Members of the media also spoke with the lawyer representing the claimants, Gabriel Suri, following the hearing, according to SIBC.

A decision could come soon, one that may determine the next step in the Solomon Islands’ political future.