In a move to facilitate the smooth conduct of National, Provincial, and Honiara City Council elections, the Solomon Islands Government has declared Wednesday, April 17th, 2024, as a public holiday.
The announcement was made by the caretaker Minister of Home Affairs, Christopher Laore, in an Extra Ordinary Gazette published on Monday, April 8th.
According to the Gazette, the declaration falls under section 2 of the Public Holidays Act (Cap. 151), emphasizing that April 17th will be a public holiday to accommodate the polling day for the general election, Provincial Assemblies election, and the Honiara City Council election.
Furthermore, in a bid to maintain peace and order during the election period, the government has ordered a liquor ban. Caretaker Minister for Home Affairs, Christopher Laore, issued the order in the same Extra Ordinary Gazette published on April 8th.
The ban, termed the "Liquor ban Order 2024," is enacted under the Liquor Act (Cap.144) and will be effective from April 16th to April 26th.
During this period, all licensed premises, bars, nightclubs, and bottle shops across the Solomon Islands are mandated to remain closed. The order explicitly prohibits the sale of liquor on these premises, except for licensed establishments within hotels or restaurants, which are permitted to serve liquor to bona fide guests.
This measure aims to mitigate any potential disruptions or disturbances that may arise during the electoral process and ensure a peaceful environment for citizens to exercise their voting rights.
The government urges all citizens and stakeholders to adhere to these directives for the successful conduct of the elections and the overall well-being of the nation.
For further inquiries or clarifications regarding the public holiday declaration or the liquor ban order, citizens are advised to contact the Ministry of Home Affairs.
This decision underscores the government's commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens during crucial national events.
Source: Press Release, Government Communications Unit