Congratulations Frank Kabui,

I wish to congratulate Mr Frank Ofagioro Kabui for his election as the new Governor General designate for Solomon Islands.

Mr. kabui's election to the highest position on the land signifies the great confidence and trust that our members of Parliament have on him, on behalf of all Solomon Islanders.

As the first Solomon Islander to take up the post of Attorney General of our country in 1980, a post he held for 14 years up to 1994 coupled with his appointments as the first Chairman of the Law Reform Commission from 1994 to 1998, High Court Judge from 1998 to 2006, and the Chairman of the Law Reform Commission from April 2006 to his election on Monday this week; all one can say is that you deserve the Governor General's post Frank. You will be an invaluable asset to the nation in your anticipated contribution as the 6th Governor General.

I could recall that morning we travelled together on the MV Pelican Express from Auki to Honiara. Not knowing who you are before that day, I accidently came to know you personally through some informal discussions that we had onboard. What touched me was your down-to-earth personality and your willingness to embrace ideas from this young generation.

Frank, your achievements are an inspiration to many of us. Your credentials, as someone with a humble upbringing from North Malaita has motivated me to work hard with an aspiration to achieve higher goals.

Finally thank you to the out-going Governor General for serving the nation through these hard times, and also to the government for allowing members of Parliament to elect the Governor General of their individual choice.