Electoral materials distribution starts next week

The Solomon Islands Electoral Office is doing everything to finalise all electoral materials by 18 of this month.

SIEO’s Chief Electoral Officer- Mose Saetala confirmed over the weekend.

Mr Saetala said the materials would be distributed to all polling stations throughout the 50 constituencies before the commencement of the election.

SIBC News understands, the Solomon Islands Electoral Office is now in the process of printing all ballot papers.

Meanwhile, the Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Roderick Brazier has announced Australia’s assistance package for the upcoming National General Election.

He said as a close friend to Solomon Islands, Australia is pleased to provide assistance that will support the delivery of a free and fair election this year.

At the request of the Solomon Islands Government, the Australian Defence Force will provide contingency support to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and Solomon Islands Electoral Commission in preparation for and during the election.

The Australian Defence Force package includes the provision of air and sea-lift support across provinces in the country, communication links for officials conducting and monitoring the elections and enabling the RSIPF to support the elections through the provision of logistics, communications and strategic lifts.

The Australian High Commission office in Honiara said the first major cargo-load of equipment arrived in Honiara recently via Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft.

Elements of the Australian Defence Force Task Group have already begun providing preparatory training to the RSIPF in the areas of logistics, operations, communications, first aid and public affairs ahead of the election.

By: Fred Osifelo.