2023 Solomon Islands protests

On 2 February 2023, the United States reopened its embassy in the country after a 30-year absence.^[5] On 7 February 2023, Premier of Malaita Province Daniel Suidani was removed from office after a vote of no confidence from the provincial legislature.^[6][7][8] Suidani had pushed for independence from the central government.^[9] As premier he did not recognise the One China Policy of the government.^[10] Under Suidani, Malaita's provincial assembly opposed the diplomatic switch to from Taiwan to the PRC.^[11] Suidani was accused of misappropriating funds.^[12] His supporters stated that his criticism of China was the reason for his removal.^[13]

As a result, protests were held in Auki.^[14] The protests were in Malaita province.^[15] There were reports of police teargassing protesters.^[16]

Suidani was succeeded by Martin Fini.^[17] The April 2024 Solomon Islands general election was considered important for China–United States relations.^[18] In October 2024, Daniel Suidani was arrested and charged in relation to unlawful protests.^[19]