Traditional ceremony thanks Sogavare for 27 years of service as Member of Parliament and leadership in East Choiseul Constituency
Caretaker Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare was recently honored with the highest form of respect by the people of East Choiseul Constituency. The traditional ceremony, known as ‘Va Bavoe,’ was said to be initiated by the four provincial members of East Choiseul to express gratitude to Sogavare for his 27 years of service as their Member of Parliament and for his leadership in the East Choiseul constituency.
During the traditional ceremony held at Paqoe village, Sogavare was given the honor of cutting down traditional food, wrapped in what was locally referred to as “Suqu.”
The event included traditional dancing by the people of Sirovanga in North West Choiseul and a feast attended by hundreds of well-wishers who gathered to thank their former Member of Parliament. The Sirovanga dancers are from North West Choiseul and their former Member of Parliament, Harry Kuma was also present to witness the tradtional ceremony held for his fellow counterpart.
However, there was said to be mixed feelings among the people of Choiseul, with claims of serious divisions among the people of East Choiseul regarding the traditional ceremony. Addressing the gathering, Sogavare acknowledged the talks and divisions, emphasizing the need for unity among the people. He expressed his gratitude for the respect bestowed upon him and thanked the Provincial Members and chiefs of East Choiseul for the initiative. Various provincial members and chiefs representing different wards in the constituency spoke highly of Sogavare’s leadership, praising his contributions to both the constituency and the country.
East Choiseul constituency, established in 1993, has a history that dates back to the expansion of Parliament from 38 to 47 seats. Sogavare has represented the people of East Choiseul since 1997, serving until the 11th parliament from 2019 to 2023.
The ‘va bavoe’ ceremony coincided with the celebration of Sogavare’s 69th birthday, adding to the festivities for this leader named Pacific Person of the year by Island Business magazine, one of the Pacific’s longest-serving news magazines. (Exculsive Interview by Tavuli News with Sogavare to be premiered soon)
Sogavare’s performance in the upcoming election will largely depend on the support from East Choiseul. Only the people of East Choiseul will determine whether Sogavare will return to serve another term as their Member of Parliament or not.
