Newcastle Australian Minister Sharon Claydon has congratulated Malaitan people and Electoral Commission office for a successful voting on Wednesday.
Mrs Claydon is part of a team of international observation group who are representing the Australian government. The group compromised of other nationalities such as Japan, England, USA and Pacific Islands who were invited by the Solomon Island government to oversee the election process in the country.
During an exclusive interview yesterday the Minister stated she was happy to see Malaitans taking democracy very seriously.
“My observation its good to see people happily taking part in the election process with joyous celebrations.
“It’s interesting to see many young and old people turning up at the polling stations to cast their votes.
“I want to thank the communities for their tremendous effort to ensure the process is peaceful.”
The Australian labor party member then went on to appreciate the role Electoral Officers for the role they play during the voting day.
“The electoral officers were doing a great job. It was terrific to see the Electoral Officers ensure eligible voters to cast their ballots in an orderly and timely manner.”
Claydon declared the election process is still a fresh in her mind because few weeks ago she undergone it in her hometown in electing a new mayor before coming over.
‘It’s interesting to compare and contrast the process while here. Our rendered support will let Solomon Islanders know the serious position Australian government considers in the electoral process.”
She admitted that they will after all compile reports and presented to Australian government for possible swapping discussion and identifying the differences.
Claydon with her counterparts from the Australian High Commissioners office in Honiara were in Auki to actively participate in observing polling stations of Aoke/Langalanga constituency.
Two more Australian minister Senator Linda Reynolds and Bert van Manen are also in the country observing the election.
By TEDDY KAFO
In Auki
