BY ALFRED PAGEPITU
A long-time Gizo resident, Watson Bana, has praised the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) for successfully conducting a joint election throughout the country.
Bana expressed his observation that this year’s joint election was conducted smoothly, and he wishes to acknowledge the Electoral Commission for overseeing a peaceful election, along with the officials who were entrusted with completing all the tasks.
“I would also like to acknowledge the CEO of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, Jasper Highwood Anisi, as well as all the workers and officials who were deployed throughout the country and tirelessly contributed to the completion of this year’s election.
“In this year’s election, most people desired change, particularly in the rural communities. Consequently, they came out to cast their votes.
“While the majority sought change, some elected new MPs while others re-elected incumbents.
“As a rural dweller myself, I believe that development must directly reach the people. When I visited Gizo after eight years, I noticed that nothing has changed – the roads and buildings remain the same.
“Therefore, I urge the newly elected and re-elected MPs to fulfill the promises of change they made during their campaigns. Once in parliament, it is crucial that they take concrete actions for change.
“As MPs, they must visit rural communities and implement economic activities that will sustain and benefit the people. We need to prioritize the development of rural areas, as this is what the people desire.
“These are the areas that demand attention so that in the next election, when it is your turn, you will not have to struggle to win the support of your voters. Instead, you will be welcomed back because you have performed well in your constituency.
“In my observation of this year’s election, most of the processes were new to many voters, but the new systems were implemented effectively.
“I hope that the people will become familiar with this voting system so that in the next election, we can proceed smoothly with all the necessary requirements.
“I am pleased to see that people followed the instructions, and I was satisfied with the new process. I hope that the newly elected MPs, as well as the incumbents, will work towards fair development in the country.
“Bana also commended the Electoral Officials and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) in Gizo for ensuring security and facilitating a peaceful election process.
“I would also like to express my gratitude to the Assistance Defense Force for providing security alongside the RSIPF.
“I extend my thanks to the public as a whole for observing and participating in this peaceful election. Now, we eagerly await the next significant event, which will be the election of the Prime Minister.”
