Rini was Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Natural Resources in 1989 and was Chairman of Solomon Islands National Provident Fund from 1990 to 1996.

[1] Rini's subsequent election as prime minister by Parliament on 18 April 2006 caused riots as some claimed the election was fixed and that Rini's government would be unduly influenced by local Chinese businessmen and one or both of the mainland China and Republic of China (Taiwan) governments.

Originally to be sworn in as prime minister on 19 April, this was delayed until the following day because of the riots and conducted without prior notice so as to avoid triggering further violence.

In response to the violence, extra Australian, New Zealand and Fijian police and defence personnel were dispatched as part of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands to try to enable his new government to regain control.

Fono, as Leader of the Opposition, named Rini as Shadow Minister of National Planning and Aid Coordination on 16 May 2006.