Solomon Islands Power Shift: Opposition leader Matthew Wale has been elected prime minister in a secret ballot, winning 26 votes to 22 after Jeremiah Manele’s no-confidence ouster—Wale says “change is coming” and has promised more transparency, including around foreign mining and logging. Energy Push: In parallel, Honiara is set to get its first large-scale grid-connected solar project, with the ADB advising and assessing whether battery storage is needed as diesel still drives 98% of electricity. Pacific Economy Pressure: The World Bank warns growth across Pacific island states is slipping—fuel, shipping costs, weaker tourism and repeated global shocks are expected to drag 2026 growth to under 3%. Jobs and Water: The same World Bank update flags youth pressure and points to water infrastructure as a jobs engine. Environment and Governance: PNG moves to create a huge “no-take” marine protected area, while Solomon Islands is still not endorsing a regional ocean declaration amid domestic process delays. Culture Spotlight: Doc Edge Festival has unveiled its 2026 programme with 28 world premieres.