Pacific

Solomon Islands opposition to choose new leader next week

11:00 am on 16 May 2003

Solomon Islands opposition MPs are not expected to decide on a new leader until early next week.

However, a spokesman says the race to replace Patteson Oti, who resigned this week, is between two independent MPs, Fred Fono and John Garo.

Ten of the 13 opposition MPs have been consulted in Honiara and they have agreed to delay a decision until they have discussed the leadership with the other 3 who remain in their provinces.

The Opposition has not revealed why Mr Oti resigned but a spokesman says he was not forced out of the role.