The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) has congratulated the Solomon Islands people, the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) and the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) for conducting a fair, free and peaceful National General Election last Wednesday.
With all the results from the 50 constituencies now declared, RAMSI in a statement commended the people of Solomon Islands for the peaceful way in which they exercised their democratic rights.
“In casting their ballots, Solomon Islanders have had their say on who they want to represent them in the National Parliament for the next four years.
“A successful election of this kind is the best possible outcome for the nation. It sends a clear message to the rest of the world that Solomon Islands is a democratic and stable member of the international community. It also sends all the right signals to investors, confirming that this is a country open for business. All Solomon Islanders can rightly be proud of these achievements.”
RAMSI also commended the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) for the commitment and preparations its members undertook to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, and to ensure people across the country were able to vote in a free and fair manner.
“We also wish to highlight the role of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) in maintaining law and order throughout the election period, supported by their colleagues from the Correctional Services of Solomon Islands.
“RAMSI has been pleased to be able to support the RSIPF by providing some additional officers from Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific island countries to help boost police numbers.
“But we emphasise that the RSIPF itself has led all security operations for this election, and it will continue to do so until after the new government is formed. This has been the biggest nation-wide security operation that the RSIPF has ever performed and its members have done an impressive job.
“RSIPF officers have worked hard to engage with communities early and resolve any issues. Their high-visibility presence in regional centres has helped set the scene for a positive and peaceful election atmosphere. And, as results were announced, the RSIPF dealt with any incidents that emerged quickly and professionally,” the statement said.
RAMSI commended the RSIPF for a job well done. But the police are not complacent and their efforts to continue to provide security, law and order are not finished yet. They remain ready to respond to, and deal with, any further disturbances should these arise.
With the newly elected Members of Parliament now gathering in Honiara to form the next government and elect a Prime Minister, RAMSI wishes to once again call on the citizens of this country to respect the rule of law during this process.
“We ask all Solomon Islanders to support your police as they work with communities and the new members of parliament, to allow the next government of Solomon Islands to take office with dignity and respect.”
