Frank Kabui

Sir Frank Utu Ofagioro Kabui, GCMG, CSI, OBE, KStJ (born 20 April 1946) is a former diplomat who was the Governor-General of Solomon Islands from 7 July 2009 to 7 July 2019.

He was the country's first law graduate in 1975, became a judge and was a former member of the Solomon Islands Bar Association (SIBA), having twice served as its president.

Career

Background and legal career

Kabui was born on 20 April 1946 in the village of Suluagwari, near Malu'u on the island of Malaita. He is a former High Court judge and Attorney General. He was twice elected President of the Solomon Islands Bar Association, the second time in 2007 to succeed Ranjit Hewagama. Whereas David Campbell was Solomon Islands' first local lawyer, Kabui was the country's first law graduate upon completing his studies at the University of Papua New Guinea in 1975. Kabui also served as Chairman of the Law Reform Commission.

Political career

2009 nomination

Kabui was nominated by the National Parliament to become Governor General after the fourth round with thirty votes. The Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Edmund Andresen, received eight votes while Kabui's predecessor, Nathaniel Waena, received seven. Three members were not present. The list of candidates also included former Prime Minister and current Speaker of Parliament Peter Kenilorea and five other candidates. Following the completion of this nomination process in Parliament, the formal appointment as Governor-General was then issued by Elizabeth II, Queen of Solomon Islands.

On 8 July 2009 in Honiara, Kabui presented an award to athlete Jim Marau, who, in 1975, became Solomon Islands' first South Pacific Games gold medallist.

On 9 October 2009, Kabui was appointed a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George.