Solomon Islands leadership shake-up: Matthew Wale has been elected prime minister in a secret ballot, winning 26 votes to 22 after Jeremiah Manele was ousted in a no-confidence move—an outcome being watched closely for what it means for ties with China and for Australia’s influence. Wale says “change is coming,” and while he previously criticised the 2022 China security pact, he now says he will review it before deciding next steps. Energy and jobs pressure: The World Bank warns Pacific growth will slow further in 2026 (forecast 2.8%) as Middle East-linked fuel and shipping costs bite, with diesel still powering most electricity. Honiara power plan: In parallel, the ADB and Solomon Islands Electricity Authority have signed up for the country’s first large-scale grid solar project for Honiara, aiming to cut heavy diesel dependence. Business on the move: SICCI welcomed a decision to relocate east Honiara buses away from the Central Market to ease congestion. Marine science: A new satellite study finds whale sharks travel much farther across the Indo-Pacific than previously thought, underlining the need for wider protection.