General elections were held in the Solomon Islands on 6 August 1997.^[1] A total of 350 candidates representing nine parties contested the election,^[2] the result of which was a victory for the Solomon Islands National Unity and Reconciliation Party (SINURP), which won 21 of the 50 seats. However, Bartholomew Ulufa'alu, leader of the Liberal Party, was elected Prime Minister by Parliament, defeating SINURP leader Solomon Mamaloni.

1997 Solomon Islands general election

← 1993 6 August 1997 2001 →

All 50 seats in the National Parliament 25 seats needed for a majority

Party Leader Seats +/– SINURP Solomon Mamaloni 21 New People's Alliance 7 −2 NAP 5 +2 United Party Ezekiel Alebua 4 +1 Liberal Party Bartholomew Ulufa'alu 4 +4 National 1 New Independents — 6 +2 This lists parties that won seats. See the complete results below. Prime Minister before Prime Minister after Solomon Mamaloni People's Alliance Bartholomew Ulufa'alu Liberal Party