In the Solomon Islands, the National General Election was held after every four years to elect the members of the parliament. Across the country, registered voters will queue up to the respected polling station to willingly cast their ballots in favor of their selected candidates. According to the constitution, the polling station will open at 8:00 am and close at 5:30 pm just before the dawn, under the guidance of the polling agent, assistance and of course a watchful police officer.
Every year during the election period, people are reminded and strictly reassured with the same old phrase, vote wisely, your vote is your voice. But is this statement real or is it just an illusion or another year to just ring the bell?
The context of an election for Solomon Islanders is viewed differently from the western world with different perception and attitudes. For many, the election is another opportunity to elect a new, energetic, and visionary leader as their representative in the parliament. To others, it’s their privilege to simply sell their vote for an income as a reward for their ballot paper. For some community leaders, the election is a season for a bribe, begging, and requesting for assistance towards the community as a whole or for themselves in the name of the community. All these are the reactions of many Solomon Islanders towards the intending candidates who contest the national election.
This year the bell will ring hopefully during the month of April. The governor general will make the declaration of the exact date soon. May this election bear fruit of genuine leaders who have the burning desire to serve faithfully and loyal to the nation of Solomon Islands.
God bless the Solomon Islands.