08 Apr 2024 | 09:54 AM UTC
Solomon Islands: General election to occur nationwide April 17
Solomon Islands to hold general election April 17. Increased security almost certain. Transport disruptions, clashes possible near rallies.
The Solomon Islands will hold its general election April 17. Around 400,000 voters will head to the polls to elect members of the 12th parliament. A total of 334 candidates will contest the election, representing 13 political parties as well as independents. The prime minister will be selected after the vote; if one party secures a majority in the legislature, the appointment will likely occur quickly. However, the process could be delayed for days or weeks if parties need to form a coalition.
Campaign activities are ongoing in the run-up to the vote. Campaign rallies are likely in urban centers, especially the capital, Honiara. Attendance at larger rallies may attract around a few hundred people. Gatherings will likely occur at public squares, marketplaces, village grounds, and prominent roadways and intersections. Allegations of electoral fraud or other poll-related disputes could lead to civil unrest during and after the election.
Authorities will almost certainly bolster security in the lead-up to and on election day. Although the run-up to the vote has been largely calm, political unrest and violence remain possible, particularly in Honiara and provincial capitals like Auki and Gizo. In Honiara, security measures will likely be the tightest in Chinatown, which has experienced election-related violence in the past. Clashes between security forces and protesters or rival groups of supporters are possible. Vandalism, arson, and other attacks are possible and may lead to business disruptions in affected towns. Authorities will likely enhance security during larger campaign events, at polling stations and counting centers, or in high-risk areas where violence is possible or ongoing. Officials may erect roadblocks in some areas and search vehicles for weapons.
Avoid election-related events as a precaution. Monitor local media for the outcome of the vote, and any dissension from opposition members, in the days after April 17. Operate with caution in Honiara's Chinatown area, and immediately depart if a large crowd forms nearby.
The upcoming election will determine the composition of Solomon Islands' 50-seat parliament, which will in turn select the prime minister. The political landscape in the Solomon Islands has historically been fragmented, with no single party typically winning an outright majority. Incumbent prime minister and leader of the Ownership, Unity and Responsibility (OUR) party Manasseh Sogavare will be running for a fifth term amid criticism from the opposition over his decision to delay the elections.
The 2024 election is taking place against a backdrop of growing ties between the Solomon Islands and China. Public discontent over Sogavare's strengthening relationship with Beijing has raised concerns about the potential targeting of Chinese-owned businesses and interests during the election period. In 2021, riots broke out in Honiara's Chinatown District following peaceful protests opposing the government's decision to formally recognize China instead of Taiwan, resulting in significant damage to Chinese-owned properties.
While countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea will provide security support to the Solomon Islands during the election period, local police forces typically face resource constraints that could hinder their ability to respond effectively.
