Dear Editor – May I contribute briefly on an article regarding the above published on Friday 15th.
On the outset, I should say the facts presented by Mr Tavake of West Honiara constituency shouldn’t be ignored by the Electoral office. However, I understand the Chief Electoral officer has explained the process required under the Act but I would suggest his explanation will not solve the issue raised.
The fact of the matter is highlighted several times by Mr Tavake that the issue would highly likely spark surprise if the responsible authorities turn a deaf ear to it. That means to avoid escalating the issue, proper advice should be provided to investigate the matter because resolving the issue before the National General Elections will save a lot of time and the only proactive measure needful in this moment.
On another development in relation to the upcoming election, some intending candidates for Temotu Pele constituency are aggressively pursuing their interest with every ounce of their energy shipping non – food and food items to the rural communities. It is surprising though that some (if not most) of them never think of assisting the rural people until this year, 2014 when goods were shipped in tonnes.
However, other people use different strategies to increase their influence but for the same purpose and outcome to win the elections. I wish to call on the Electoral office to investigate this matters as formal complaints will be processed in the days ahead.
Obviously, there is a new paradigm in relation to Pele politics that you have to show the people the power of mammon accessible through you in order for the people to give you the power you need to win the elections. The problem is power accessed through these means are easily abused and misused.
This is what I call, ‘the power cry of an opportunist’ who see no further than his/her nose and thinks of building a fortune that will only last for as long as the people hang on his/her hooks. Incredible as it may sound but that’s how desperate some people are at this stage of the eleventh hour of the life of the current parliament.
Finally, may I call upon the responsible authorities to seriously look into the issues raised here and design a proactive strategy to tackle the network which breeds corruption. Let’s work together to ensure that the upcoming election is conducted lawfully and peacefully.
Alec Leubwa
Honiara
