Solomon Islands PM resigns

Solomon Islands new Prime Minister Snyder Rini resigned Wednesday after less than one week in power, according to reports reaching Canberra.

Rini was elected as prime minister in a parliamentary vote on April 18. Supporters of the opposition then took to the streets of Honiara, capital of the Pacific nation, claiming the vote was fixed.

Protests changed into the most serious rioting and looting since Australia, New Zealand and other Pacific governments intervened in 2003 to help end years of bloody ethnic gang conflict. Rini was sworn in on April 20.

Rini resigned as MPs were due to vote on a motion of no-confidence against him, Australian Associated Press (AAP) reported.

Rini's announcement of resignation came after he learned at least five members of his government coalition had crossed the floor to join the opposition.

"I have no alternative but to tender my resignation as prime minister of the Solomon Islands," Rini was quoted as saying.

News of Rini's resignation was greeted with celebrations on the streets of Honiara, with people cheering and driving cars down the main street honking horns, according to AAP.

Source: Xinhua