FORMER prime minister Gordon Darcy Lilo says he’s contesting the Gizo-Kolombangara by-election to restore the constituency’s integrity, dignity, respect and recognition of its leadership.
Mr Lilo was speaking in his final campaign rally in Gizo town yesterday ahead of today’s polls.
He is one of five candidates contesting in the by-election.
Close to 1,000 supporters of Mr Lilo converged in Gizo town yesterday to stage a parade for their candidate.
Mr Lilo said he was amazed at the level of support people are giving him as he staged his national election come-back.
“This time round we must restore those opportunities we have lost over the past two years,” Mr Lilo said as he thanked his supporters and followers.
He reminded eligible voters that they have been faced with so many challenges over the past two years.
“We have been called to go back to the polls simply because corruption, bribery and ill- leadership actions.”
He said he believed the people of Gizo/Kolombangara will restore that integrity of the constituency in today’s polls.
“That is what you and I represent – restoring the lost integrity of our constituency for the past three years,” Mr Lilo said.
There are a total of 12 polling stations in Gizo/Kolombangara constituency.
The polls open 7am this morning.
Other candidates contesting are:
1. Lanelle OlandreaTanangada
2. Peter Soqoilo
3. Ronald Philips Dive
4. Kenneth Bulehite
The by-election becomes necessary after Jimson Tanagada lost the seat in a successful election petition Mr Lilo filed against him.
The High Court found Tanangada guilty of corruption and bribery during the 2014 elections, which he won.
By ANDREW FANASIA
in Gizo
