Former Solomon Islands leader charged with organizing unlawful protests

Former Malaita province premier Daniel Suidani has been charged with organizing unlawful protests in 2021. He and his former political advisor were arrested and released on bail. Police allege they led protests that resulted in violence and significant property damage. The protests in late 2021 called for the resignation of then-prime minister Manasseh Sogavare. They escalated into riots in Honiara, leading to three deaths and extensive destruction, particularly in areas owned by the Chinese community. Suidani, who has been critical of the national government’s ties with China, plans to contest the charges in court. He maintains that the allegations are unfounded and insists he will fight them.