By Nick Sas from the Pacific Local Journalism Network, with contributions from foreign affairs reporter Stephen Dziedzic and Solomon Islands reporter Chrisnrita Aumanu-Leong, ABC
Manasseh Sogavare, in a passionate pre-election address in the province of Malaita, commended China’s political system while suggesting that democracy could lead to moral degradation and the acceptance of same-sex marriage.
Sogavare, currently the frontrunner in the upcoming Solomon Islands national election on 17 April, faces a dynamic political landscape in the Pacific islands, making outcome predictions challenging.
During a campaign rally in Auki, the regional capital, broadcasted live on Facebook, Sogavare reiterated his admiration for the Chinese government, emphasizing that the decision to shift diplomatic recognition to Beijing had significantly raised Solomon Islands’ profile.
He lauded the Chinese government’s transformation over 70 years, asserting that China had transitioned from a communist regime to a “Chinese-style” socialist governance system.
Highlighting the societal differences, Sogavare contrasted the absence of beggars in China with the prevalent homelessness in major U.S. cities, questioning the values associated with democracy, such as the acceptance of same-sex marriage, and prompting reflection on the values embraced by a predominantly Christian nation like the Solomon Islands.
With approximately 92 percent of the population identifying as Christian and homosexuality being illegal, Sogavare’s remarks resonate deeply in a nation where religion plays a significant role.
These statements fuel existing concerns in Canberra about the potential authoritarian shift that Sogavare might undertake if re-elected, given his recent pro-China stance.
The decision to switch allegiance from Taiwan to China in 2019, known as “The Switch,” marked a pivotal moment during Sogavare’s fourth term as prime minister, triggering domestic unrest and raising suspicions about a clandestine security agreement with China.
Despite denying allegations of establishing a Chinese security base, Sogavare’s leadership has been overshadowed by “The Switch,” although he garnered praise for securing the 2023 Pacific Games, a milestone event for the nation.
In his address in Auki, Sogavare highlighted the nation’s progress under his leadership over the past five years, emphasizing the transformative impact of aligning with China compared to the previous relationship with Taiwan.
As the election approaches, political analysts anticipate a significant outcome, with Sogavare positioned as a formidable contender due to his adept political maneuvering and loyal following.
In contrast, Peter Kenilorea Jr., leader of the United Party and a prominent rival to Sogavare, has advocated for revisiting the security pact with China and potentially re-establishing ties with Taiwan, a stance that diverges sharply from Sogavare’s pro-China stance.
Kenilorea Jr. emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and addressing critical issues affecting Solomon Islands, particularly focusing on healthcare, education, and youth welfare in a country where the majority of the population is under 35 years old.
As the election nears, the political landscape in Solomon Islands remains tense, with contrasting visions for the nation’s future emerging between the incumbent leader and his opposition.