The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) has confirmed that nominations for candidates contesting the West Baegu Ward by-election in Malaita Province and the Koviloko Ward by-election in Isabel Province will open on 18 February and close at 4:00 PM on 4 March 2026.
The announcement follows the publication of the official Election Date Gazette Notice, which sets polling day for Wednesday, 15 April 2026. Chief Electoral Officer and Commissioner Jasper Highwood Anisi said the notice formally activates the electoral process, including the start of campaign activities and preparations for candidate nominations.
“This marks the beginning of a crucial democratic process for the voters of West Baegu and Koviloko,” Anisi said during a press conference.
The by-elections will run on a 56-day timetable, with campaign activities now legally underway.
According to SIEC, senior election field officials have already been recruited, trained, and deployed to the respective provinces to oversee the nomination phase and initial stages of the process.
Anisi said the Commission is fully prepared to conduct the elections.
“Our operational team is ready, and sufficient resources are available to ensure the smooth execution of the entire electoral operation,” he added.
Nomination Process and Requirements
Individuals intending to contest must meet several eligibility criteria.
Candidates must be at least 21 years old, be registered voters in the province where they are contesting, be nominated by three registered voters from the respective ward, and pay a non-refundable nomination fee of SBD $2,500.
Prospective candidates are required to submit nominations in person at designated centres before the close of nominations at 4:00 PM on 4 March.
The nomination centre for West Baegu Ward will be located at the Malaita Provincial Chamber, Conference Room 2, in Auki, while the Koviloko Ward centre will operate from the DFL Centre Building in Buala, Isabel Province.
SIEC reminded candidates to attend with their nominators — all of whom must be registered voters in the ward being contested — in order to complete the nomination process.
Following the close of nominations, a ballot paper draw will be conducted to determine candidate positions on the ballot. Any candidate wishing to withdraw must notify the relevant Returning Officer in writing within 48 hours after nominations close.
The Commission has urged prospective candidates to ensure all documentation is complete and submitted before the deadline.
Polling Arrangements
A total of 3,793 registered voters across the two wards are eligible to participate in the by-elections.
Voting will take place across 10 polling stations — seven in West Baegu Ward and three in Koviloko Ward.
The Commission has encouraged eligible voters to take part in the process and exercise their democratic right to choose their representatives to the Provincial Assembly.
For further information, SIEC advises prospective candidates and voters to contact the Commission directly or visit its official website and social media platforms for updates.
