The two political groups' fight for reign continues as candidates for Thursday's Parliamentary votes for Prime Minister were named Saturday.
Former Education Minister, Dr. Derek Sikua, has been named as the Opposition's nomination whilst the caretaker government named their new caretaker Deputy Prime Minister, Patteson Oti, as their candidate.The caretaker government has questioned the suitability and credibility of the Opposition's candidate to which the Opposition, in response, claimed that their choice follows unsuccessful attempts by the caretaker government's side to lure their leader, Fred Fono, as their candidate.
Former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare was ousted in a 25-22 vote.
His Excellency the Governor General, Sir Nathaniel Waena, formally declared on Saturday Dr. Sikua and Mr. Oti as the candidates for the Prime Minister's position.
Opposition Leader, Fred Fono, said his group remains committed, with all its 25 MPs having signed a Memorandum of Understanding to pledge "full support" to Dr. Sikua.