By Gina Maka’a

Nominations for candidates in the upcoming joint election on April 17th will commence today, February 21st to March 6th.

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Jasper Anisi, of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, announced this during a media conference yesterday.

Regarding nominations, Anisi stressed that each candidate must physically appear at the nomination centers with three registered nominators, take a photo, and sign a printed copy of their completed nomination declaration.

He also urged intending candidates contesting under political parties to bring their certificates from the registrar of political parties to verify their affiliation.

The CEO emphasized that the upcoming election is not merely a duty but a privilege, an opportunity to shape the course of the Solomon Islands towards a better future.

_{SIEC Deputy CEO Christina Mitini(L) SIEC CEO Jasper Anisi(C) and SIEC Operations Manager Fredrick Bosoboe(R)}

“With this privilege comes responsibility. We must approach this election with open minds, thoughtful consideration and respect for our fellow citizens’ diverse views and opinions,” he said.

Acting Governor General Patterson Oti declared the proclamation of the joint election date, under section 74 of the Constitution and section 58 of the Electoral Act 2018 yesterday at the Government House.

Additionally, under section 5 of the Provincial Assemblies and Honiara City Country Electoral Act 2023, the caretaker minister for the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening Rolland Seleso and the caretaker minister for the Ministry of Home Affairs, have also appointed the election date for seven provinces and the Honiara Council Elections.