The Honourable Matthew Cooper Wale, Member of Parliament for Aoke/Langalanga Constituency, was duly elected Prime Minister after securing the majority support of Members of Parliament during a secret ballot held in Parliament House.

Hon. Wale defeated his opponent, the Honourable Peter Shanel Agovaka, by a margin of four votes, receiving 26 votes to 22. Of the 50 Members of Parliament, 49 ballots were cast, with one Member absent and one ballot declared spoilt.

The election followed recent political developments, including the successful Motion of No Confidence that resulted in the vacation of the Office of Prime Minister.

His Excellency the Governor-General of Solomon Islands, Sir David Tiva Kapu, formally declared the results of the Prime Ministerial Election held on Friday, 15 May 2026, and announced that Hon. Matthew Cooper Wale had been duly elected Prime Minister of Solomon Islands by Members of Parliament.

This year’s theme is “Democracy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”

This is a great opportunity for young people who want to learn more about leadership, democracy, and public service. Under the Twinning Partnership Agreement between the Solomon Islands and New South Wales, the Parliament of New South Wales will cover all costs for the selected participants.

What to Expect

This program brings together young people from across the Commonwealth to experience how parliamentary democracy works.

You will take part in debates, committee sessions, and leadership workshops, and meet other motivated young people.

Experienced parliamentary staff will support you throughout the program.

How to Apply

Send your written attachment by email (no more than 300 words per question) by 30 April 2026, explaining:

• How attending the Commonwealth Youth Parliament would benefit you personally and what impact it could have on youth in the Solomon Islands.
• How artificial intelligence can help young people in the Solomon Islands participate more actively in democracy and decision-making.

Can I Apply?

Yes! Up to 66 young people from across the Commonwealth will take part.

• You should be confident, able to communicate well, and interested in politics, public service, or the Commonwealth.
• You must be motivated to represent the Solomon Islands internationally.
• Applicants must live in the Solomon Islands or have studied here, and be 18–29 years old at the time of the program.

Submission Details:

Attach your document and email it to:
young.virivolomo@parliament.gov.sb

Subject line: Commonwealth Youth Parliament 2026

Important:

Ensure your application is complete and submitted before the closing date.

Important Travel and Passport Requirements for CYP13 Participants

• You must be able to travel to Australia between 24 July – 2 August 2026
• You must hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your travel dates