Rini resigns as Solomons PM

Snyder Rini

Snyder Rini has resigned as prime minister of the Solomon Islands.

Rini resigned this morning shortly before a scheduled vote of no confidence against him, saying he no longer had the support of parliament.

"I have no alternative but to tender my resignation as prime minister of the Solomon Islands," Rini told parliament in the capital Honiara, which was rocked by rioting and looting a week ago when Rini was elected.

The Associated Press reported Rini said he was quitting "so all MPs can come together so this country can go forward."

Parliament will now vote in a secret ballot for a replacement to Rini.

Riots last week destroyed large areas of the capital, Honiara, particularly China town.

New Zealand, Australia and Fiji have rushed troops and police to the Solomons in the past week in an attempt to quell further violence and unrest.

News of Rini's resignation was greeted with celebrations on the streets of the capital Honiara with people cheering and driving cars down the main street honking horns.

A Solomons radio presenter told Newstalk ZB Mr Rini faced defeat in the no confidence motion when he arrive din Parliament today.

He went out for 15 minutes to consider his position and, when he returned, announced his resignation.

- REUTERS, NEWSTALK ZB