Polling day in Solomon Islands is public holiday
Chief Electoral Officer Polycarp Haununu
“We have been advised that the legal instrument to declare election day a public holiday has been signed, as recommended by the Electoral Commission,” Chief Electoral Officer Polycarp Haununu said.
“The Electoral Commission is now satisfied that every voter, whether they are employed or not, has an equal chance to go to the polling station where they are registered to vote, and cast one vote for a candidate of their choice.”
Mr Haununu said the decision to declare the election a national public holiday was not a new one.
“Previous National General Elections have also been declared public holidays to allow everyone the same chance to vote,” Mr Haununu said.
“Many of the 900 polling stations across the country are schools, and so the public holiday also means that these buildings are available to the Electoral Commission and voters for polling day.”
He called on all registered voters to exercise their democratic right to freely, fairly and safely cast their vote this coming Wednesday.
“Polling stations will be open from 7.00am until 5.00pm only, so people should arrive early to cast their vote,” Mr Haununu said.
“The current law does not allow voters to cast their vote after 5pm, even if they are standing in line waiting to cast their vote,” Mr Haununu said.
Mr Hanunu advised voters across the country to check the election final notice posted by Returning Officers in their area.
SOURCE: SOLOMON STAR/PACNEWS
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