FORMER Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Referral Hospital (NRH), Dr George Manimu has questioned the integrity and independency of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC).
Dr Manimu who is also believed to be an intending candidate in next month’s National General Elections said that for many years, the country’s system of election looked as if it is easy to purchase by those with money.
“Is the SIEC independent? Are the Officers working under the SIEC independent?
“It would be right to say that the SIEC is independent by law however looking at past experiences, it is clear that the electoral system we have in the country is purchasable.
“Some election results contradict what people had expected.
“These have occurred in many instances in the past and we (candidates) fear that it may occur again in next month’s elections,” Dr Manimu stressed while attending a briefing held for candidates by the SIEC at the National Museum on Wednesday.
In answering Dr Manimu, SIEC’s Chief Electoral Officer, Polycarp Haununu said that the SIEC is doing its best in ensuring that all the processes and electoral laws are abided by.
Mr Haununu said that the SIEC is also trying its best to be transparent and ensured that everything is done within the basis of the Electoral Act.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
