MOST voters who return home in Malaita to cast their ballots left the province on Thursday night back to Honiara.
They travelled back in chartered boats hired by candidates.
On Thursday night there were two ships – MV Bikoi I and Daystar – chartered by a candidate in north Malaita for his voters and supporters.
More charters are expected yesterday and over the weekend as voters return to resume their normal duties in Honiara
A voter spoken to said that he was given three days unpaid leave by his boss so he have to get back in time for normal duties.
He said that coming to cast his votes in his constituency in North Malaita was part of practicing his democracy right.
“I am happy to cast my vote in my constituency because it counts and will make a difference and a change for my people in Malaita,” he said.
The Solomon Star understands that with few weeks remaining before Christmas others who came to vote have to stay up to have their Christmas holidays at their homes.
Meanwhile, the counting process in Malaita will continue today.
As of yesterday, only Baegu-Asifola and East Kwaio completed counting their ballots.
Both constituencies re-elected their outgoing MPs for another term.
Malaita has 14 constituencies.
By STEPHEN DI’ISANGO
in Auki
