2019 Solomon Islands general election explained

Country:Solomon Islands
Previous Election:2014
Next Election:2024
Election Date:3 April 2019
Seats For Election:All 50 seats in the National Parliament
Majority Seats:26
Turnout:86.42% (3.51 pp)
Party1:Solomon Islands Democratic Party
Leader1:Matthew Wale
Last Election1:New
Percentage1:13.64
Seats1:8
Party2:Solomon Islands United Party
Leader2:Peter Kenilorea Jr.
Last Election2:New
Percentage2:10.43
Seats2:2
Party3:Kadere Party
Leader3:Peter Boyers
Last Election3:1
Percentage3:9.50
Seats3:8
Party4:United Democratic Party (Solomon Islands)
Leader4:Danny Philip
Last Election4:5
Percentage4:8.16
Seats4:4
Party5:Democratic Alliance Party (Solomon Islands)
Leader5:Steve Abana
Last Election5:7
Percentage5:6.37
Seats5:3
Party6:People's Alliance Party (Solomon Islands)
Leader6:Allan Kemakeza
Last Election6:3
Percentage6:6.00
Seats6:2
Party7:People First Party (Solomon Islands)
Leader7:Jimmie Rogers
Last Election7:1
Percentage7:3.69
Seats7:1
Party8:Solomon Islands Party for Rural Advancement
Leader8:Job D. Tausinga
Last Election8:1
Percentage8:3.18
Seats8:1
Party9:Independents
Leader9:
Percentage9:36.52
Last Election9:32
Seats9:21
Map:2019 Solomon Islands general election.svg
Prime Minister
Before Party:Democratic Alliance Party (Solomon Islands)
Before Election:Rick Houenipwela
After Party:Ownership, Unity and Responsibility Party
After Election:Manasseh Sogavare

General elections were held in Solomon Islands on 3 April 2019 to determine the composition of the 11th Parliament. The election was the first to occur since the conclusion of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) in 2017. Parliament passed amendments to the electoral act in 2018 that included the introduction of pre-polling, a significant increase in campaign budgets for candidates and stricter penalties for individuals committing electoral offences such as vote-buying. Ten of the thirteen parties that contested the election won seats, and the Solomon Islands Democratic Party and the Kadere Party were the parties that secured the highest number, winning eight each. However, as in previous elections, independent candidates won the largest share of seats, securing 21.

Two blocs emerged to attempt to form a government, including the Grand Coalition, with Mathew Wale as their candidate for prime minister. In contrast, the other bloc, the Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement, nominated Manasseh Sogavare to challenge Wale. Sogavare had previously served as prime minister three times; his previous stint ended in 2017 after he lost a no-confidence vote. Wale challenged Sogavare's bid in court, claiming he was ineligible to stand for prime minister, as he registered his Ownership, Unity and Responsibility Party (OUR) after the election (Sogavare ran as an independent), in breach of the electoral act. The high court ordered the vote for the prime minister to be postponed on the day it was scheduled to occur on 24 April; however, citing the constitution, Governor-General Frank Kabui ordered the vote to proceed. The Grand Coalition boycotted the vote in protest while parliament elected Sogavare to a fourth non-consecutive premiership. The vote sparked frustration with much of the public and resulted in riots in Honiara. The high court later dismissed Wale's case against Sogavare, determining it to have been based on repealed laws.

Background

Before the previous elections in 2014 Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo implemented biometric voter registration and voter identification cards to prevent individuals from voting multiple times. Two-thirds of the elected candidates were independents, winning 32 seats. Six different parties won the other 18 seats; the Democratic Alliance Party emerged with the most, securing seven seats. Five candidates of the United Democratic Party were successful, while three members of the People's Alliance Party were victorious. Three other parties, the Kadere Party, People First Party and the Solomon Islands Party for Rural Development, each won a single seat. Only one female candidate, Freda Soria Comua, was successful and became only the third woman elected to parliament in the country's history.[1] [2] In an upset, Prime Minister Lilo lost his seat.[3]

Following the elections, negotiations on forming a government commenced. Independent MP Manasseh Sogavare, who previously served two non-consecutive terms as prime minister, formed the Democratic Coalition for Change (DCC), which included the Kadere Party, United Democratic Party and numerous independents. Sogavare established the DCC to form a government, and on 9 December parliament elected him to a third non-consecutive term as prime minister, defeating first-term MP Jeremiah Manele.[1] [4]

In June 2017, the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands concluded operations in the country, the deployment of which was in response to ethnic violence that occurred from 1998 to 2003 and the resulting instability.[5]

In October 2017 nine cabinet ministers, including Deputy Prime Minister Manasseh Maelanga, and several backbenchers defected to the opposition, citing an unease with Sogavare's nephew and chief of staff, Robson Djokovic's alleged undue influence in government affairs. They also claimed that the prime minister ignored them on policy issues and that he had strayed from the coalition's initial goals.[6] On 6 November Sogavare lost a vote of no-confidence filed by the opposition, which was also how his previous stint as prime minister ended.[7] Parliament elected former Finance Minister Rick Houenipwela on 15 November to succeed Sogavare.[8]

Electoral system

The governor-general must schedule a general election to take place within four months of the dissolution of parliament. The nomination period commences the day after the announcement of the election date and concludes 42 days before the poll. The period for campaigning begins on the day of the proclamation of the polling date and ceases the day before the election.[9] The 50 members of the National Parliament were elected in single-member constituencies using first-past-the-post voting. Candidates had to be at least 21 years old and resident in the constituency in which they ran. Disqualifications included holding dual citizenship, being executives or members of the Electoral Commission, having an undischarged bankruptcy, being imprisoned for more than six months, or being under a death sentence.[10] Candidates running as members of a registered political party were not permitted to change their affiliation after the confirmation of their nomination; unless they withdrew and filed their candidacy again.[9] The 2018 electoral act raised the non-refundable nomination fee from SI$2000 to SI$5000 in an attempt to lower the number of candidates, especially "shadow candidates" who ran with the sole purpose of splitting votes to benefit other contestants. The electoral commission argued that with fewer candidates, the victor would gain a more decisive mandate.

Voters

Voters had to be at least 18 years old and hold Solomon Islands citizenship. Overseas residents could not vote, and people were disqualified from voting if they had committed a breach of the electoral law, been declared insane, been imprisoned for more than six months, or were under a death sentence.[10] A total of 359,522 Solomon Islanders registered to vote in the elections, an increase of 72,000 compared to the 2014 elections.[11] The 2018 electoral act introduced pre-polling, which was open to polling staff and police officers that were to going to provide security for voting centres on election day.[12]

Parties and candidates

A total of 333 candidates were nominated to contest the election; 171 were affiliates of a party, and 162 were independents. There were only 26 female candidates, a similar number to elections in the previous 20 years. Although the number of female voters has usually been equal to male voters, few women have run in past elections due to biases such as a perception that women's influence should not extend beyond domestic duties. Thirteen parties competed; however, parties in the Solomon Islands have tended to be personality-based, small, with limited organisation, and often lacking a clear ideology. Two candidates registered and campaigned as members of a party; however, disputes arose regarding proof of their affiliation. One candidate, Mark Kemakeza, campaigned as a member of the Solomon Islands Democratic Party (SIDP). However, the SIDP denied Kemakeza was an affiliate of the party and filed a complaint with the electoral commission, resulting in Kemakeza's disqualification in March 2019, decreasing the candidate total to 332.[13]

PartyCandidates 2014 result
Votes (%)Seats
United Democratic Party1810.72%
Democratic Alliance Party287.78%
Kadere Party134.67%
People First Party174.51%
People's Alliance Party214.44%
Solomon Islands Party for Rural Advancement103.90%
National Transformation Party182.85%
Pan Melanesian Congress Party32.11%
New Nation Party20.31%
People's Progressive Party30.24%
Solomon Islands Democratic Party22
Solomon Islands United Party29
Green Party Solomon Islands 3
Independents16256.27%

Campaign

As in other Melanesian countries, "money politics", which refers to candidates engaging in vote buying and political gifting, have historically featured heavily throughout campaign seasons in the Solomon Islands. To combat this practice, amendments in the 2018 electoral act implemented stricter penalties, including a SI$50,000 fine and a 15-year prison sentence. The electoral commission conducted an awareness campaign in the lead-up to the election, highlighting the consequences of engaging in this practice. The 2018 amendments also increased the maximum campaign budget for candidates from SI$50,000 to SI$500,000 and, in turn, featured lavish spending from some contestants. Leadership quality, good governance and the economy were some of the most common issues many candidates focused on.

The Solomon Islands' diplomatic relations with Taiwan were frequently debated during the campaign. Numerous candidates, such as former Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, advocated for severing ties with Taiwan and establishing diplomatic relations with China due to the growing trade between the Solomon Islands and the latter. Despite having no formal diplomatic links, China had already become the Solomon Islands' largest export market. Incumbent Prime Minister Rick Houenipwela pledged a review of ties with Taipei if his government remained in power, although he clarified it did not mean a switch was inevitable.[14] [15] In late March, the Island Sun reported that an unidentified party negotiated secretly with Chinese officials, promising to establish relations with Beijing in exchange for money.[16]

The campaign season concluded on 2 April, when the country's first campaign blackout period began, which from that day to the end of the election, barred campaigning and the public display of campaign material. The blackout was implemented by amendments in 2018; in previous polls, the night before polling day was known as the "devil's night" which would reportedly see an uptick in numerous candidates engaging in bribery and treating to secure last-minute votes.[17]

Conduct

The dissolution of the 10th Parliament occurred on 16 December 2018,[18] and Governor-General Frank Kabui announced the election date on 5 February 2019.[19] Pre-polling occurred on 21 March from 7:00 to 17:00 (UTC+11).[12] Shortly before the election, the Electoral Commission launched two apps that assist voters in finding their polling stations and where they could search for their identification number.[20]

Australian and New Zealand defence forces provided contingency logistics support before and during the elections, including approximately 300 personnel, HMAS Melville, and six support helicopters. Observers included New Zealand observer groups in three constituencies, Australian observer groups in fourteen constituencies, and Australian National University researchers and observers in fifteen constituencies.[21]

Days before the election, allegations surfaced of candidates threatening voters if they did not vote for them, which Police Commissioner Matthew Varley condemned.[22] On election day, polling stations were open from 7:00 to 17:00 (UTC+11), although voters who were waiting in line before closing time but had not yet cast their ballots were allowed to vote.[23] An alcohol ban was in force on election day and during the counting period,[22] and over a thousand police officers were deployed around the country.[24] Some polling stations were reportedly too small, leading to overcrowding and a lack of privacy for voters. While the election was mostly orderly and peaceful, observer delegations noted the presence of irregularities, with some voters' names missing from electoral lists at polling centres. Unlike past elections, once voting concluded, ballot boxes were transported to the capital Honiara where the vote counting occurred.[25] Fears of violence led the police force to be on alert as the results were being announced and also prompted the police commissioner to prohibit victory parades.[26] [27]

Results

Eight parties won seats, none of which secured a majority. The Solomon Islands Democratic Party and the Kedare Party emerged as the largest parties, with eight seats each, and 21 independents were victorious. As in the 2014 election, most incumbents won re-election; of the 48 who contested, 13 lost their seats, including former Prime Ministers Derek Sikua and Snyder Rini.[28] Two women, both incumbents, were elected. One of whom, Lanelle Tanangada, who won her seat in a 2018 by-election, narrowly defeated former Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo for a second time.[29] Turnout exceeded 80% in most constituencies.[30]

By constituency

Results by constituency
Constituency Electorate Candidate Party Votes % Notes
align=left rowspan=4Aoke/Langalanga 8,841 Mathew Cooper Wale 3,712 46.85 Re-elected
Vincent Talauburi Anisi 2,770 34.96
David Faradatolo 1,431 18.06
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 10 0.13
align=left rowspan=7Baegu/Asifola 10,943 Tagini Makario 3,028 31.58 Elected
David Tome 2,572 26.83 Unseated
Robert Iroga 1,785 18.62
Gabriel Kwanae Suri 1,685 17.58
George Taloga Suri 470 4.90
Elijah Asilaua 9 0.09
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 38 0.40
align=left rowspan=6Central Guadalcanal 8,150 Peter Shanel Agovaka 3,584 47.48 Re-elected
Walton Naezon 2,978 39.45
Peter Isaac Qotso 911 12.07
Silas Anesaia 22 0.29
Jacobeth Vari Maneiria 20 0.26
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 34 0.45
align=left rowspan=17Central Honiara 15,986 John Moffat Fugui 4,028 33.66 Re-elected
Alfred Efona 2,940 24.57
Frank Aotee 2,349 19.63
Joseph Douglas 814 6.80
Hendry Ologa Oloben 750 6.27
Julie Gegeu Haro 300 2.51
Moon Pin Quan 203 1.70
Eric Moses Tema 147 1.23
Billy Mae 126 1.05
Sam Lidimani Alasia 92 0.77
Edward Ronia 65 0.54
Johnny Maetia 51 0.43
Gary Faaitoa 27 0.23
Rose Annie Anilabata 26 0.22
Cathrine Adifaka 11 0.09
Percy Elima 9 0.08
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 28 0.23
align=left rowspan=9Central Kwara'Ae 8,458 Jackson Fiulaua 3,200 42.45 Re-elected
Ben Bau 2,760 36.61
David Diosi 1,134 15.04
Alick Hagi 135 1.79
Alick Maeaba 133 1.76
Silas Auramo 97 1.29
Clera Gore Rikimani 50 0.66
Johnson Senior Lucas 8 0.11
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 21 0.28
align=left rowspan=5Central Makira 6,299 Nestor Ghiro 3,803 70.20 Re-elected
Peter Thompson Usumae 1,419 26.20
Hypolite Taremae 152 2.81
Casper Muna 29 0.54
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 14 0.26
align=left rowspan=4East ꞌAreꞌare 7,582 Peter Kenilorea Junior 4,200 60.15 Elected
Andrew Manepora'a 2,754 39.44 Unseated
Michael Tokii 18 0.26
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 11 0.16
align=left rowspan=5East Central Guadalcanal 6,953 Ishmael Mali Avui 3,187 50.23 Re-elected
Lazarus Alfred Rimah 2,603 41.02
Reuben Tovutovu 501 7.90
James Manebosa 43 0.68
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 11 0.17
align=left rowspan=6East Choiseul 3,802 Mannaseh Sogavare 1,860 59.27 Re-elected
Ezra Kukuti 755 24.06
James Ron Kaboke 485 15.46
Loloma Pabulu 19 0.61
Danson Tanito 15 0.48
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 4 0.13
align=left rowspan=7East Guadalcanal 6,640 Bradley Tovosia 3,985 67.86 Re-elected
Timothy Manepuria 1,484 25.27
Benedict Tova 112 1.91
Patrick Junior Savusi 98 1.67
Selestino Solosaia 87 1.48
Tobias Verabola 78 1.33
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 28 0.48
align=left rowspan=11East Honiara 15,445 Douglas Ete 5,710 47.91 Re-elected
Ellison Bako 2,552 21.41
John Kabolo 1,447 12.14
Andrew Hanaria Keniasina 694 5.82
Redley Raramo 674 5.66
Joyce Konofilia 443 3.72
Micheal Maeliau 165 1.38
Walter Folotalu 133 1.12
Casper Joseph Fa'Asala 72 0.60
Robert Maemae 2 0.02
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 25 0.21
align=left rowspan=6East Kwaio 7,536 Stanley Festus Sofu 3,949 61.27 Re-elected
Alfred Solomon Sasako 1,532 23.77
Philip Junior Ika 494 7.66
Francis Sisimia 223 3.46
Diki Joses Kolosu 128 1.99
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 119 1.85
align=left rowspan=11East Makira 8,453 Charles Jordan Maefai 3,740 51.02 Elected
Alfred Ghiro 1,458 19.89 Unseated
Benedict Tahi 460 6.28
Emilio Wegu 427 5.83
Frank Wetara 329 4.49
Martin Micah Karani 289 3.94
Merry Doris Kita 232 3.17
Henry Perongo 142 1.94
Golden Kaea 141 1.92
Fox H Qwaina 92 1.26
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 20 0.27
align=left rowspan=6East Malaita 6,121 Manasseh Maelanga 2,966 56.26 Re-elected
William Baefua 1,247 23.65
Roy Jahdiel Funu 526 9.98
Evan Gerea 258 4.89
Finley Fiumae 220 4.17
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 55 1.04
align=left rowspan=9Fataleka 7,139 Rexon Annex Ramofafia 2,628 41.08 Elected
Steve William Abana 1,777 27.77 Unseated
Moffat Ramofafia 938 14.66
Luke Mani 395 6.17
Allen Joses Bae 326 5.10
Elison Lade 190 2.97
Felix Laumae Kabini 118 1.84
Ross Siosi 13 0.20
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 13 0.20
align=left rowspan=8Gao/Bugotu 5,543 Samuel Manetoali 2,467 50.93 Re-elected
Adrian Toni 1,102 22.75
Daniel Tanochoki Sio 464 9.58
Wilson Karamui Bugotu 308 6.36
Allan Kaihe Kilovunagi Tavake 208 4.29
Ernest Kolly 168 3.47
Dereck Kolinahiga Kodo 121 2.50
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 6 0.12
align=left rowspan=4Gizo/Kolombangara 10,527 Lanelle Olandrea Tanangada 4,397 51.54 Re-elected
Gordon Darcy Lilo 4,002 46.91
John Hopa 103 1.21
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 30 0.35
align=left rowspan=4Hograno/Kia/Havulei 6,910 Jeremiah Manele 4,568 73.46 Re-elected
Selwyn Riumana 1,565 25.17
Nelson Kile 78 1.25
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 7 0.11
align=left rowspan=9Lau/Mbaelelea 10,955 Maeue Augustine Auga 4,728 49.10 Re-elected
Harry Philip 2,467 25.62
Lawinter Kaleasi Ki'I 681 7.07
Frank Konairara Tabai 628 6.52
Tony Makabo 625 6.49
Erick George 425 4.41
Judson Lee Leafasia 50 0.52
Stephenson Otainao 4 0.04
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 22 0.23
align=left rowspan=8Malaita Outer Islands 3,142 Martin Kealoe 1,219 43.90 Re-elected
Leslie Tarzan Holosivi 737 26.54
Clay Hugo Kahano 537 19.34
Edward Kolohai 161 5.80
Wendy Vahoe Amangongo 106 3.82
Steward Polycarp Noholia 7 0.25
Benjamin Kemaili 2 0.07
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 8 0.29
align=left rowspan=7Maringe/Kokota 5,893 Culwick Togamana 2,462 46.06 Re-elected
Cathy Launa Nori 1,756 32.85
John Perakana Palmer 771 14.42
Varian Lonamei 281 5.26
Dickson Goramana 39 0.73
Redle'e Ausopa 33 0.62
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 3 0.06
align=left rowspan=4Marovo 10,555 Chachabule Rebi Amoi 5,619 59.23 Elected
Snyder Rini 3,766 39.70 Unseated
Atabani Tahu 84 0.89
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 18 0.19
align=left rowspan=10Nggela 10,322 Bartholomew Parapolo 2,511 26.03 Re-elected
Choylin Yim Douglas 2,122 22.00
John Selwyn Vasuni 1,603 16.62
John Kouni 1,493 15.48
Kenneth Sagupari 1,005 10.42
Joseph Hagi 323 3.35
Charles Fox Meke 309 3.20
Stephen Watson 235 2.44
Fredrick Noel Douglas 29 0.30
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 15 0.16
align=left rowspan=5North East Guadalcanal 5,168 Jamie Lency Vokia 1,835 38.54 Elected
Derek Sikua 1,629 34.22 Unseated
Desmond Nimepo Norua 973 20.44
Henry Tobani 295 6.20
Alfred Manengelea Lovanitila 29 0.61
align=left rowspan=11North Guadalcanal 6,150 Samson Maneka 2,320 41.24 Re-elected
Martin Sopage 1,080 19.20
John Kerea 903 16.05
Benedict Parataboa Garimane 453 8.05
Stephen Panga 355 6.31
Wilson Tathadaena 271 4.82
Everlyn Thugea Tautai 82 1.46
Barbi Mane Ghavea 81 1.44
Gwen Ratu 41 0.73
Daniel Sade Tarai 26 0.46
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 14 0.25
align=left rowspan=8North Malaita 8,052 Levi Senley Filualea 2,698 38.84 Elected
Jimmy Lusibaea 2,475 35.63 Unseated
Glen Waneta Alifeo 1,564 22.52
Agnes Gaote'E 98 1.41
Tommy Tagili 81 1.17
George Senisi 12 0.17
Fredrick Kwanairara 7 0.10
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 11 0.16
align=left rowspan=4North New Georgia 3,975 John Deane Kuku 2,267 63.91 Re-elected
Dewin Alick 1,213 34.20
Kenneth George Nginabule 59 1.66
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 8 0.23
align=left rowspan=4North Vella Lavella 4,606 Clezy Rore 2,232 54.64 Elected
Milner Tozaka 1,836 44.94 Unseated
Alex Gina Kivolyn 7 0.17
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 10 0.24
align=left rowspan=5North West Choiseul 6,816 Harry Kuma 2,948 51.29 Elected
Connelly Sadakabatu 2,514 43.74 Unseated
Hensol Siribau Kiko 198 3.44
Eunice Palata 81 1.41
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 7 0.12
align=left rowspan=5North West Guadalcanal 6,565 Horst Heinz Bodo Dettke 3,021 52.09 Re-elected
Albert Fono 2,288 39.45
Allan Kemakeza 430 7.41
Sophia Munamua Chonic 18 0.31
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 43 0.74
align=left rowspan=4Ranongga/Simbo 5,557 Charles Sigoto 2,592 57.37 Re-elected
Justin Mutukera 1,851 40.97
Jimmy Stanley 68 1.51
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 7 0.15
align=left rowspan=7Rennell/Bellona 3,563 Tautai Agikimua Kaitu'u 837 27.67 Re-elected
Seth Tegea Gukuna 578 19.11
Anthony Tahua Tamaika 502 16.60
Tesua Muakitangata 471 15.57
Collin Singamoana Tesu'Atai 363 12.00
Adrian Tuhanuku 271 8.96
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 3 0.10
align=left rowspan=13Russells/Savo 7,098 Dickson Mua Panakitasi 2,027 31.96 Re-elected
Oliver Salopuka 1,924 30.34
John Hugo Baulo 1,034 16.30
Tome Faemane Tarasisio 718 11.32
John Talunago 313 4.94
John Peter Tinoni 94 1.48
Derick Pepere 90 1.42
Michael Kemadika 84 1.32
Francis Otainao Iro 18 0.28
Buddy Wickhams No'Amasahu 11 0.17
Cypriano Nuake 7 0.11
Jay Timi Rhobinson 2 0.03
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 20 0.32
align=left rowspan=5Shortland 3,293 Christopher Laore 1,978 67.62 Re-elected
Caroline Laore Gorae 938 32.07
Steve Jerrad Laore 6 0.21
Saeda Iraviri 0 0.00
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 3 0.10
align=left rowspan=7Small Malaita 8,053 Rick Houenipwela 2,302 33.55 Re-elected
William Haomae 1,762 25.68
Chris Wate 1,600 23.32
John Patteson Ngalihesi 725 10.57
Edwin Aldrin Awaoli 381 5.55
Abednigo Maeohu 72 1.05
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 20 0.29
align=left rowspan=13South Choiseul 6,575 Robertson Erere Galokale 999 19.06 Elected
Tozen Leokana 965 18.41
Jackson Kiloe 742 14.16
Bavare Philip Pitakoe 725 13.83
Baoro Laxton Koraua 704 13.43
Elizah Doro Muala 471 8.99 Unseated
Nanette Anne Tutua 226 4.31
Christopher Tauro Rabaua 170 3.24
David Deva 131 2.50
Bouriki Taniana 57 1.09
Johnson Pita Sokeni 42 0.80
Jerry Pakivai 5 0.10
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 4 0.08
align=left rowspan=6South Guadalcanal 7,129 Rollen Seleso 3,104 47.79 Elected
David Day Pacha 2,574 39.63 Unseated
Heinz Konga 757 11.66
Francis Peter Para 37 0.57
Victor Alikivara 1 0.02
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 22 0.34
align=left rowspan=5South New Georgia/Rendova/Tetepari 4,274 Danny Philip 1,577 43.88 Re-elected
Jonathan Zama Aqarao 750 20.87
George Solingi Lilo 742 20.65
Stephen Roni 517 14.39
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 8 0.22
align=left rowspan=3South Vella Lavella 5,985 Frederick Kologeto 2,932 55.30 Elected
Lional Alex 2,351 44.34 Unseated
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 19 0.36
align=left rowspan=10Temotu Nende 6,239 Commins Aston Mewa 1,579 31.35 Re-elected
Walter Kola 847 16.82
Andrew Issac Nalua 460 9.13
Nelson Omar Menale 446 8.86
Simon Peter Melau 430 8.54
Ruddy Schlieffen Oti 418 8.30
Gabriel Metanen Teao 336 6.67
Mabel Numo 253 5.02
Maxwell Banyo 247 4.90
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 20 0.40
align=left rowspan=12Temotu Pele 5,061 Duddley Kopu 1,710 43.72 Re-elected
James Bonunga 1,490 38.10
Drummond Tupe Vaea 239 6.11
David Palapu 232 5.93
Douglas Yee 114 2.91
Alfred Apela Toaki 35 0.89
Michael Maina 28 0.72
William Christopher Tolei 25 0.64
Luke Laeki 19 0.49
Nelly Mabulou Nori 10 0.26
Patrick Teikamatta 1 0.03
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 8 0.20
align=left rowspan=13Temotu Vatud 3,565 Freda Ab Tuki Soria Comua 1,344 47.09 Elected
Andrew Mua 770 26.98
Chris Ashley Patty 339 11.88
Ezekiel Prians Tamoa 105 3.68
Clay Forau Soalaoi 76 2.66
Mary Alalo 59 2.07
Giles Brunox Forau 47 1.65
Timon Sinava 44 1.54
Noel Aisa 43 1.51
Sam Affirua Tarivasa 13 0.46
Mike Tiriti 8 0.28
Thomas Tofakifenua Nukuafi 1 0.04
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 5 0.18
align=left rowspan=9Ulawa/Ugi 4,033 Willie Braford Marau 1,778 52.19 Re-elected
George Takeli 476 13.97
Billy Titiulu 448 13.15
Frederick Isom Rohorua 277 8.13
James Takingarasimatawa Tora 212 6.22
Polycarp Haununu 118 3.46
Robert Henry Rata 79 2.32
Stanley Maetaoha 16 0.47
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 3 0.09
align=left rowspan=4West ꞌAreꞌare 6,304 John Maneniaru 3,223 55.77 Re-elected
Peter Chanel Ramohia 2,518 43.57
Slade Waiwaki Ehakeni 29 0.50
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 9 0.16
align=left rowspan=4West Guadalcanal 7,359 Anthony Kamu Veke 4,407 62.50 Elected
Moses Garu 2,564 36.36 Unseated
Selina Berah 46 0.65
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 34 0.48
align=left rowspan=7West Honiara 10,477 Namson Tran 5,683 66.10 Re-elected
James Apaniai 857 9.97
Selwyn Akao 680 7.91
John Kwaita 661 7.69
Ellen Inahia Maruarofa 621 7.22
Peter Forau 64 0.74
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 32 0.37
align=left rowspan=17West Kwaio 6,234 Titus Fika 1,697 30.50 Elected
John Daufanamae 838 15.06
Jackson Gege 699 12.56
Graham Tom Ete'Omea 632 11.36
Michael Maesugea 613 11.02
Rinaldo Aleadalo 295 5.30
Joseph Primo Baetolingia 277 4.98
Alfred Afeau 170 3.06
John Daubo Tafiiru 91 1.64
John Girifi'Ona 81 1.46
Fred Nguiburi Saega 80 1.44
Robert Houramo 36 0.65
Patricia Mae Dallu 14 0.25
Bobby Kelly 14 0.25
Willy Tharetoona 7 0.13
Harry Sinau Tobi 2 0.04
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 18 0.32
align=left rowspan=9West Kwara'Ae 9,674 Sam Shemuel Iduri 1,996 22.98 Re-elected
Alfred J. M. Tuasulia 1,608 18.52
Clement Koba'a Oikali 1,440 16.58
Davidson Nwaeramo 1,394 16.05
Bernard Gale 1,349 15.53
Francis Lomo 487 5.61
Charles Dausabea 341 3.93
Robert Lafisi 56 0.64
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 13 0.15
align=left rowspan=16West Makira 7,140 Derick Rawcliff Manu'ari 2,637 43.47 Re-elected
Matthew Ha'asuramo Taro 690 11.37
Elsie Maesui Dirimae 640 10.55
Jackson Sunaone 518 8.54
Tommy Mana 397 6.54
Robert Abeniha'a Chow 362 5.97
Dick Inoana Ha'amori 240 3.96
Lloyd Tahani 162 2.67
Gideon Suharahu Row 115 1.90
Presley Aridariu 82 1.35
Kennedy Hoda 79 1.30
JR Solomon Mamaloni 47 0.77
John Ta'Aru 34 0.56
Peter Mcdonald Baewai 32 0.53
Japhet Waipora 17 0.28
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 14 0.23
align=left rowspan=8West New Georgia/Vona Vona 8,383 Silas Kerry Vaqara Tausinga 1,887 27.86 Re-elected
George Temahua 1,582 23.35
Mamu Hebala Paza 1,155 17.05
Billy Veo 924 13.64
Dickson Kaehuna 538 7.94
Francis John Zama 433 6.39
Calvin Ziru 248 3.66
align=left colspan=3Rejected votes 7 0.10

Aftermath

Following the election, negotiations to form a government commenced. Two blocs emerged to compete to take the reins of government. One bloc, the Grand Coalition, was composed of the United Democratic Party, the Solomon Islands Democratic Party and the Solomon Islands United Party. The Grand Coalition initially announced that Peter Kenilorea Jr. would be the bloc's candidate for prime minister but ended up nominating Matthew Wale. The Grand Coalition did not explain why they ultimately settled on Wale.[31] Former Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare relaunched the Ownership, Unity and Responsibility Party (OUR Party) shortly after the election,[32] which, along with the Kadere, People First and Democratic Alliance parties, formed the Democratic Coalition Government for Advancement (DCGA).[33] Sogavare was the DCGA bloc's nominee for prime minister.[31]

Wale filed a lawsuit challenging Sogavare's candidacy, claiming he was ineligible to stand for prime minister because he registered his party after the election, a breach of electoral law.[34] [35] Governor-General Frank Kabui scheduled the election for the prime minister to occur on 24 April.[36] Amid fears of violence, police officers were deployed around parliament.[37] The police commission also denied a request by a youth group to protest the prime minister's election.[38] The courts issued an injunction to parliament shortly before the scheduled poll, ordering the postponement of the vote. However, utilising the privilege of immunity from the courts, Governor-General Kabui instructed the vote to proceed.[39] Kabui stated that his decision was following the constitution, which grants the governor-general the final decision over any disputes regarding the election of the head of government.[40] In response, Wale and the 14 other members of the Grand Coalition boycotted the vote. Parliament elected Sogavare to a fourth non-consecutive term as prime minister; he received 35 votes, although one was spoilt.[41] Wale subsequently became the opposition leader.[40] Sogavare's return to the premiership sparked riots in Honiara due to public dissatisfaction over the prime minister's election and the lack of involvement citizens had with the government formation.[42] [43] In late May, the courts dismissed Sogavare's eligibility case; Chief Justice Albert Palmer stated that the late party registration referenced repealed laws, while the case against the governor-general's decision referred to a law that conflicted with the constitution. Palmer also commented that it was not the court's job to fix deficient legislation.[34]

The first convention of the 11th Parliament occurred on 15 May.[44] That day, the new parliament elected former cabinet minister Patteson Oti, who had most recently served as high commissioner to Fiji, as speaker.[45] Sogavare's OUR Party saw numerous MPs join and by November 2019 the party had gained a decisive majority in parliament, occupying 32 seats.[46]

See also

References

Bibliography

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Solomon Islands National Parliament . IPU . 2 July 2023 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220122201439/http://archive.ipu.org/parline-e/reports/2289_E.htm . 22 January 2022 . live.
  2. News: Solomon Islands election: Independents win two-thirds of parliamentary seats . 2 July 2023 . Australian Broadcasting Company. 24 November 2014 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230702024020/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-24/independents-poll-strongly-in-solomon-islands-election/5914572?nw=0&r=Gallery . 2 July 2023. live.
  3. News: Cochrane . Liam . Solomon Islands election: caretaker PM Gordon Darcy Lilo concedes he has lost seat . 2 July 2023 . . 23 November 2014 . https://web.archive.org/web/20221003191915/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-23/solomons-caretaker-pm-concedes-he-has-lost-seat/5912300 . 3 October 2022. live.
  4. News: Manasseh Sogavare retakes top job as Solomon Islands prime minister; promises to rebuild economy . 2 July 2023 . . 9 December 2014 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230607111842/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-12-09/new-solomon-islands-government-elects-pm/5953718 . 7 June 2023. live.
  5. News: Wyeth . Grant . RAMSI Ends: What's Next for the Solomon Islands? . 20 July 2023 . . 30 June 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230129101419/https://thediplomat.com/2017/06/ramsi-ends-whats-next-for-the-solomon-islands/ . 29 January 2023. live.
  6. News: Blades . Johnny . Sogavare govt near collapse as anti-corruption bill tabled . 2 July 2023 . . 31 October 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220711103338/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/342732/sogavare-govt-near-collapse-as-anti-corruption-bill-tabled . 11 July 2022. live.
  7. News: Manasseh Sogavare toppled as Solomons prime minister . 2 July 2023 . . 7 November 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20200919154414/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/343246/manasseh-sogavare-toppled-as-solomons-prime-minister . 19 September 2020. live.
  8. News: Houenipwela becomes 17th Prime Minister of Solomon Islands . 2 July 2023 . Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation. 15 November 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230618124324/https://www.sibconline.com.sb/hou-becomes-17th-prime-minister-of-solomon-islands/ . 18 June 2023. live.
  9. Electoral Act 2018 . National Parliament of the Solomon Islands. 2018 . 3 July 2023 . https://web.archive.org/web/20200923224425/https://solomon-islands.ec-undp-electoralassistance.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2018/09/ec-undp-jtf-solomons-islands-resources-electoral-act-2018.pdf . 23 September 2020 . 30-32,34. live.
  10. Web site: Electoral System . IPU . 3 July 2023 . https://web.archive.org/web/20221219015053/http://archive.ipu.org/parline-e/reports/2289_B.htm . 19 December 2022. live.
  11. News: Rickson J. Bau . SIEC publishes final Voter List . 3 July 2023 . . 17 January 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230617180623/https://www.sibconline.com.sb/siec-publishes-final-voter-list/ . 17 June 2023. live.
  12. News: First Pre-Poll Voting Successful . 3 July 2023 . Solomon Times. 22 March 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210418044512/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/first-prepoll-voting-successful/8929 . 18 April 2021. live.
  13. News: Change to Solomons election candidates list . 7 July 2023 . . 26 March 2019 . https://archive.today/20230707020437/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/385555/change-to-solomons-election-candidates-list . 7 July 2023. live.
  14. News: Could There Be A Diplomatic Switch? . 27 July 2023 . Solomon Times . 19 March 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220527182530/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/could-there-be-a-diplomatic-switch/8923 . 27 May 2022. live.
  15. News: Taiwan Ties Maybe Uncertain . 27 July 2023 . Solomon Times . 22 March 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210421112646/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/taiwan-ties-maybe-uncertain/8930 . 21 April 2021. live.
  16. News: Chinese Deal With Former MPs to Switch Recognition After Elections Exposed . 27 July 2023 . Solomon Times . 27 March 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230401003949/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/chinese-deal-with-former-mps-to-switch-recognition-after-elections-exposed/8943 . 1 April 2023. live.
  17. News: Hawkins . Koroi . Solomons campaign blackout in force as election looms . 15 July 2023 . . 2 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210731115218/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/386113/solomons-campaign-blackout-in-force-as-election-looms . 31 July 2021. live.
  18. News: Bau . Rickson J. . Tenth Parliament to dissolve midnight tonight . 21 July 2023 . . 16 December 2018 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230617194023/https://www.sibconline.com.sb/tenth-parliament-to-dissolve-midnight-tonight/ . 17 June 2023. live.
  19. News: Date set for Solomon Islands election . 21 July 2023 . . 5 February 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220516185218/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/381781/date-set-for-solomon-islands-election . 16 May 2022. live.
  20. News: New election apps released . 21 July 2023 . . 30 March 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230130150531/https://www.solomonstarnews.com/new-election-apps-released/ . 30 January 2023. live.
  21. Web site: Contingency Logistics Factsheet. Solomon Islands Electoral Commission. https://web.archive.org/web/20190404103453/http://www.siec.gov.sb/index.php/nge-resources/awareness-materials/contingency-logistics/279-australian-and-nz-support-for-the-2019-election-factsheet-english/file.html. 4 April 2019. 4 February 2019.
  22. News: PC Varley Condemns Threats and Intimidation to Voters . 21 July 2023 . Solomon Times . 29 March 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210418061702/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/pc-varley-condemns-threats-and-intimidation-to-voters/8949 . 18 April 2021. live.
  23. News: Reports of irregularities as Solomon Islands polls close . 4 April 2019 . . 3 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230708230405/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/386277/reports-of-irregularities-as-solomon-islands-polls-close . 8 July 2023. live.
  24. News: PC Varley Calls For Surrendering of Illegal Arms . 21 July 2023 . Solomon Times . 25 March 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220518165440/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/pc-varley-calls-for-surrendering-of-illegal-arms/8939 . 18 May 2022. live.
  25. News: Hawkins . Koroi . Election day arrives in Solomon Islands . 21 July 2023 . . 3 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210731021306/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/386200/election-day-arrives-in-solomon-islands . 31 July 2021. live.
  26. News: No Victory Parades Allowed . 21 July 2023 . Solomon Times . 4 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230529122145/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/no-victory-parades-allowed/8963 . 29 May 2023. live.
  27. News: Wasuka . Evan . Counting begins after Solomon Islands' election but final results weeks away . 4 April 2019 . . 4 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230709004720/https://www.abc.net.au/pacific/programs/pacificbeat/counting-begins-in-solomon-islands-after-election/10969370 . 9 July 2023. live.
  28. Web site: Baker . Kerryn . The surprising sameness of the Solomons elections . . 14 July 2023 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230208210137/https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/surprising-sameness-solomons-elections . 8 February 2023 . 23 April 2019 . live.
  29. News: Tanangada Defeats Lilo in Closely Contested Election . 14 July 2023 . Solomon Times . 5 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230529115452/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/tanangada-defeats-lilo-in-closely-contested-election/8967 . 29 May 2023. live.
  30. News: Independent and returning MPs dominate new Solomons parliament . 14 July 2023 . . 9 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230215000631/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/386583/independent-and-returning-mps-dominate-new-solomons-parliament . 15 February 2023. live.
  31. News: Fanasia . Andrew . Wale to take on Sogavare for PM's position . 1 August 2023 . . 19 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20211031064718/https://www.solomonstarnews.com/wale-to-take-on-sogavare-for-pm-s-position/ . 31 October 2021. live.
  32. News: Sogavare relaunches party amid Solomons coalition talks . 1 August 2023 . . 11 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230215000631/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/386825/sogavare-relaunches-party-amid-solomons-coalition-talks . 15 February 2023. live.
  33. News: New Coalition Group Formed, Claims 33 MPs . 1 August 2023 . Solomon Times . 15 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230529111836/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/new-coalition-group-formed-claims-33-mps/8989 . 29 May 2023. live.
  34. News: Case against Solomons PM thrown out of court . 1 August 2023 . . 27 May 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220328122938/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/390598/case-against-solomons-pm-thrown-out-of-court . 28 March 2022. live.
  35. News: Sogavare's Eligibility Case May Take Months . 1 August 2023 . Solomon Times . 29 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230604164939/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/sogavares-eligibility-case-may-take-months/9021 . 4 June 2023. live.
  36. News: 24th April Declared for PM's Election . 1 August 2023 . Solomon Times . 16 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230604170611/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/24th-april-declared-for-pms-election/8991 . 4 June 2023. live.
  37. News: Heavy police presence ahead of Solomon Islands PM vote . 1 August 2023 . . 24 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210613190339/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/387644/heavy-police-presence-ahead-of-solomon-islands-pm-vote . 13 June 2021. live.
  38. News: Solomons' police say no to protest march . 1 August 2023 . . 18 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220526143851/https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/387330/solomons-police-say-no-to-protest-march . 26 May 2022. live.
  39. News: Manasseh Sogavare elected prime minister of Solomon Islands . 26 April 2019 . . 24 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20221025223222/http://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/387670/manasseh-sogavare-elected-prime-minister-of-solomon-islands . 25 October 2022. live.
  40. News: Fale . Steve . Sogavare's Eligibility Case May Take Months . 1 August 2023 . Solomon Times . 29 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230604164939/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/sogavares-eligibility-case-may-take-months/9021 . 4 June 2023. live.
  41. News: Protests erupt as Sogavare is elected as Prime Minister . 1 August 2023 . . 24 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230617144705/https://www.sibconline.com.sb/protests-erupt-as-sogavare-is-elected-as-prime-minister/ . 17 June 2023. live.
  42. News: Wyeth . Grant . Riots in the Solomon Islands Greet Returned Prime Minister . 1 August 2023 . . 1 May 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230127173422/https://thediplomat.com/2019/05/riots-in-the-solomon-islands-greet-returned-prime-minister/ . 27 January 2023. live.
  43. News: Armbruster . Stefan . Protests in streets of Solomon Islands after Manasseh Sogavare elected as PM . 1 August 2023 . . 24 April 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220910044758/https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/protests-in-streets-of-solomon-islands-after-manasseh-sogavare-elected-as-pm/bkon0nl7w . 10 September 2022. live.
  44. News: Election of Speaker Underway . 1 August 2023 . Solomon Times . 15 May 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230604171546/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/election-of-speaker-underway/9064 . 4 June 2023. live.
  45. News: Fale . Steve . Patteson Oti Elected Speaker . 1 August 2023 . Solomon Times . 15 May 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20230529123812/https://www.solomontimes.com/news/patteson-oti-elected-speaker/9065 . 29 May 2023. live.
  46. News: Fanasia . Andrew . OUR Party Runs Show . 1 August 2023 . . 1 November 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20221203115728/https://www.solomonstarnews.com/our-party-runs-show/ . 3 December 2022. live.