Solomon Islands leadership shake-up: Matthew Wale has been elected Prime Minister in a tight 26–22 vote, ending Jeremiah Manele’s run after a no-confidence fight that dragged through the courts. Wale says “change is coming” and warns the country isn’t immune to global geopolitics—an immediate test for business as policy, spending discipline, and foreign ties could shift. China vs Australia tug-of-war: Wale is a long-time critic of the 2022 China security pact, though he’s since softened his tone, saying he’ll “look at” the agreement before deciding. Australia welcomed the result, but the China challenge remains embedded in the economy and security arrangements. Energy pressure on the economy: In the background, Pacific governments are bracing for higher fuel and shipping costs tied to Middle East instability—fuel is a major cost driver for Solomon Islands power and transport. Renewables push: Separately, the ADB and SIEA have signed up to develop Honiara’s first large-scale grid solar project, aiming to cut diesel dependence. Pacific business context: The World Bank also warns growth across the region is likely to slow further in 2026.