UNITED States ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu was impressed with the preparation in the lead up to yesterday’s National General Election.
Walter North,who is based in Port Moresby,Papua New Guinea(PNG), is here to observe the election process.
In an interview with the Solomon Star yesterday at the White River School polling station, Mr North said he was impressed at the election preparation done by electoral office in Honiara.
This was shown by the presiding officers and poling assistance officers during the election process, he said.
“I come here and was impressed to see these electoral officers conducting their responsibilities in a very transparent way,” he said.
“And this had shown to us that the election today has been well organised and planned, which went out smoothly and peaceful,” Mr North said.
The ambassador visited a number of polling stations to observe the election process.
He also acknowledged the turn out of the voters.
Mr North said he will continue to observe the counting process and the announcement of the results because US is keen to know the results and the formation of a new government.
“We are very interested of this election outcome and happy to observe the Election Day today.
“Our team will also observe the counting process until election of the new Prime Minister.
“As ambassador of US, I’m very privilege to be here since Solomon Island and US have a very great relationship when John Kerry visited Solomon Island this year.
“And this election will determine the future of this country and the future of people in this country,” Mr North concluded.
Counting started this morning.
By DENVER NEWTER
