Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Andrew Byrne, has congratulated the people of Solomon Islands on a successful national election.
“I was pleased to see so many Solomon Islanders embracing democracy and exercising their right to vote,” said Mr Byrne.
“Election day was well-coordinated and peaceful, and a credit to the work of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the people of Solomon Islands.
“I was particularly pleased to see the positive impact of the Biometric Voter Registration process. The new roll provided greater confidence and reduced opportunities for voter fraud.
“This election represents an important milestone for Solomon Islands; it’s a crucial prerequisite for ongoing stability, economic growth and development.
“Australia is proud to have worked in partnership with the Solomon Islands Electoral Commissionfor many years. We also made a substantial contribution to international election observation efforts. Australia has also contributed additional police to supplement RAMSI during the election period.”
Australian election monitors, including two Australian Members of Parliament, Mr Bert van Manen MP and Ms Sharon Claydon MP, were warmly welcomed by polling officials and voters. They observed the election in Honiara, Guadalcanal, Central, Malaita and Western provinces. Australian Senator Linda Reynolds was attached to the Commonwealth Secretariat observation team and deployed to Western Province. Senator Reynolds has subsequently provided a positive report on the election to the Australian Senate.
Press Release: Australian High Commission Office, Honiara, Solomon Islands
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