Counting underway for Solomon Islands election

HONIARA — The counting process was underway on Thursday for the Solomon Islands' joint election, encompassing both national and provincial elections.

Following the conclusion of voting on Wednesday across the various constituencies in the country, the majority of the ballot boxes have now arrived at their respective counting centers, which marks the beginning of the crucial counting process in the electoral cycle.

Reports indicate that several counting centers have initiated the essential step of verifying the contents of the received ballot boxes before commencing the actual counting. This meticulous verification process ensures the integrity and accuracy of the electoral outcome.

A total of 334 candidates are vying for 50 seats in the parliamentary election. Party-affiliated candidates outnumber independent candidates 219 to 115.

Thirteen political parties are contesting the election of the national parliament.

Voters cast their ballots in a joint election, encompassing both national and provincial elections.

A total of 816 candidates are contending for positions in the provincial assemblies and 89 for the Honiara City Council.

The results of the provincial wards will be the first to be unveiled, preceding the announcement of the national results, said Jasper Anisi, chief electoral officer of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission.

The voting has been peaceful, even in highly contested constituencies such as the Fataleka Constituency and Ward 5 in West Fataleka.

In the capital Honiara, voters enthusiastically cast their votes.

Residents queued at polling stations, eager to participate in the electoral process. For many first-time voters like Samson, participating in the election was a significant moment.

Despite feeling a bit nervous, Samson expressed his joy at being able to vote for a legislator who will represent him and his community in the parliament.

The national and provincial governments will be formed within the next 14 days by members of the national parliament and members of the provincial assemblies, respectively. They will govern for a four-year term.

The Solomon Islands archipelago is home to 700,000 people, but occupies a strategic position 1,600 kilometers northeast of Australia.

Xinhua - Agencies