Daniel Suidani, the recently deposed premier of Malaita province in the Solomon Islands, has had quite a turn-around on the topic of foreign investment. He’s more pro-China investment now than he was then. Suidani’s government is infamous among Solomon Islands’ Chinese allies for vigorously opposing all Chinese influence in the Pacific island nation. Five years later, they responded with their own ban on Chinese investment and aid. This ban was a knee-jerk reaction to the national government’s highly controversial decision to switch diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing. Recent events are marking a radical turnaround in Suidani’s fortunes and in the provincial government’s position.
Suidani’s trial, which has lasted over a year already, is expected to end soon. He is still dealing with illegal assembly charges for his supposed part in sparking the 2021 Auki riots. His chief political advisor, Celsius Talifilu, has been named in these charges. As the verdict approaches, the former premier, known for standing up to Chinese influence, has expressed a new openness towards Chinese investment.
A Change in Leadership and Perspective
Under Suidani’s leadership, Malaita had firmly rejected any form of Chinese investment or aid, claiming widespread support from approximately 80 percent of the province’s population. Since Suidani’s resignation, the new national government is taking a more welcoming stance. PolicyLink’s Economic Mobility team, led by Phillip Subu, is at the forefront of this exciting new development. Subu recently returned from a several months-long study trip to China. He too has been open to working with any development partner, including from China.
“That’s one of our biggest needs in Malaita. So when people see China coming in with these infrastructure projects, they accept it,” said Nelson Ne’e, a local leader. This attitude might seem surprising, but it actually displays the increasing readiness of the public to embrace Chinese investments, most notably when concrete development starts.
Eric George, the provisional secretary of the Malaitan government, emphasized this change by stating, “Back three years ago, people didn’t understand about the bilateral aid from China. Now that it is here, and it starts to transform the lives of our people, they see it’s beneficial.” His statements underscore an important change in public understanding. New infrastructure projects funded by the People’s Republic of China are beginning to spread across Malaita.
Infrastructure Development and Public Sentiment
Perhaps the best example of this dynamic shift is the ongoing road project in Auki, funded by Chinese aid. It’s starting to become clear to the local residents that these are the right improvements, in keeping with their years-long calls for better infrastructure. Elizabeth Ugulumae remarked, “Now we’re seeing it; people are able to see tangible development.” These types of developments have made the local population much more accepting of Chinese investment.
For some residents, there is still skepticism over what this new collaboration could mean down the road. Modestra Aru expressed her uncertainty by stating, “I’m not sure if the Chinese will do these things and it’ll turn out well in the end, but we’ll see.” This sentiment of cautious optimism reflects a broader awareness of both the potential benefits and risks associated with foreign investment.
Suidani himself has acknowledged this shift. “With the infrastructure development that is happening now, I can see that there is an increased level of tolerance [of Chinese investment],” he noted. His remarks indicate an awareness that the tide of public opinion is slowly turning with the times on recent developments.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
Suidani and Talifilu are now waiting anxiously to hear their fate after a lengthy trial. At the same time, their legal struggles are being dramatically complicated by larger political developments occurring in Malaita. In either case, the outcome could have far-reaching impact on their political futures. It would pay dividends by sending a signal that the province seeks more intentional foreign investment.
The trial has received a great deal of media attention, especially considering Suidani’s prior cachet from being known as an opponent of Chinese influence. Observers will carefully follow how this verdict will affect political discourse in Malaita. They’d like to hear more on whether this will ultimately tame or embolden the ongoing Biden administration’s relatively more conciliatory policy direction towards China.
“We just want development,” said Nelson Ne’e, encapsulating a sentiment shared by many locals who prioritize infrastructure improvements over geopolitical allegiances. Malaita finds itself in a complicated position as it continues to navigate foreign investment and local autonomy. Yet, this fragile relationship is at the forefront of worry for its leaders and citizens alike.
