The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands Manasseh Sogavare continues to strengthen his position with the return of resigned Minister of Lands Andrew Manepora.
Mr Manepora who has just returned from an overseas trip says he was pressured into signing his resignation by the group of seven disgruntled ministers who crossed the floor last week.
In addition to this the entire independent group in parliament has also joined government to fill five other vacant ministerial portfolios.
The Office of the Prime Minister has confirmed the latest moves saying the government is secure ahead of a planned motion of no confidence against Mr Sogavare scheduled for this Friday.
The members of the independent group will take up the following ministerial portfolios:
Manasseh Maelanga- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs;
Chris Laore- Minister for Forestry and Research;
David Tome- Minister for Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening;
Elijah Doromuala- Minister for Commerce, Industries, Employment and Immigration and Jimmy Lusibaea- Minister for Infrastructure Development.
The MP for West Honiara Namson Tran is the only independent member group joining government who will not join cabinet.
Photo: RNZI Koroi Hawkins