BY CHRIS ALEX
SEAFARERS in the Solomon Islands are pushing for voting rights as they argue that their contributions to the economy and society warrant a say in the country’s political future.
In an interview with SUNDAY ISLES, Captain Mathew Malau, from Mohawk Bay in the Reef Islands, Temotu Province, revealed the long-standing frustrations of seafarers in the country by saying they have to vote in national general elections, highlighting their important role in the country’s maritime industry.
Captain Mathew Malau, from Mohawk Bay in the Reef Islands, Temotu Province, revealed the frustrations of seafarers in the country, highlighting their crucial role in the maritime industry and their right to vote in national elections.
Matthew stressed the crucial role seafarers play in ensuring the smooth execution of elections in the country.
“Seafarers’ are custodians of democracy,” he said. “We ensure citizens safely reach voting destinations, yet we frequently face disenfranchisement [depriving someone of their voting rights]; we significantly contribute to the economy by transporting goods and passengers, but often miss election periods due to their seafaring duties.”
Captain Malau urged the new government after the 2024 joint election to amend electoral laws to allow seafarers to vote while at sea or to establish polling stations at ports and other maritime facilities.
He argued that giving seafarers the right to vote would empower them and ensure that their voices are heard in shaping the country’s future.
