BY CHRIS ALEX
THE CARE Coalition, a partnership between the Solomon Islands Democratic Party and the Democratic Alliance Party, has recently launched its election campaign in Makira/Ulawa province to promote transparency and accountability.
The campaign launch was held on March 20 at Kirakira, the provincial capital, and Maniwiriwiri village as the country nears the 2024 joint election on April 17.
The CARE Coalition’s launch in Makira/Ulawa province is crucial, as the rural population has long been frustrated by government transparency and accountability, feeling marginalized and powerless, and unable to participate in decisions impacting their lives being made without their input.
Matthew Cooper Wale, former opposition leader and CARE Wing Leader, led the launch alongside Henson Makoani, the Central Makira candidate.
“We believe that by working together, we can create a more transparent and accountable government that truly represents the interests of the people,” Wale said. “Our goal is to empower the people of Makira/Ulawa to support themselves and ensure that their voices are heard.”
Matthew Wale delivered a passionate speech emphasizing the significant role of every vote.
“Your vote is your sovereignty.” He urged citizens not to underestimate the power of their vote, emphasizing that it symbolizes their voice, rights, and influence.
Wale warned against the temptation to trade votes for short-term gains, urging citizens to resist such allures.
“Don’t sell it for material goods,” he pleaded, reminding everyone that the vote is a precious right, not a commodity.
Wale stressed the need to be assertive and hold leadership accountable.
“Hold your leadership accountable.” He called upon Makira residents to demand transparency, honesty, and progress from their elected representatives.
He stressed the need to reward good leadership by re-electing deserving leaders while also advocating for the removal of underperforming leaders.
“Vote them out to reward bad leadership,” he said, highlighting the negative effects of bad leadership.
Wale underlined the significant role of individual votes in determining the outcome of a political election.
“Your vote affects the whole country,” urging citizens to choose wisely, considering the ripple effects on policies, services, and fellow citizens’ lives.
Wale later urged voters to prioritize policies that care about them, such as education, healthcare, the environment, and social justice, rather than personalities in their electoral choices.
As the CARE Coalition continues to expand its reach, it is hoped that it will serve as a model for other communities looking to promote transparency, accountability, and empowerment. By working together, people can create a more just and equitable society for all.
Wale highlighted the importance of citizens’ votes in shaping a better future, highlighting the launch of the CARE Coalition as a significant milestone towards a more accountable, transparent, and empowered Solomon Islands, with the CARE Coalition leading the country towards integrity, responsibility, and collective empowerment.
