Intending candidates warned

The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) has warned intending candidates for the upcoming general elections not to campaign under the guise of voter awareness outside of campaign period.

This comes after several reports of a number of intending candidates who have already carried out so called ‘Awareness talks’ in some parts of the country.

Speaking during a press conference today on new clauses to the Constitution amendment law and electoral act 2018, Chief Electoral officer Mose Saitala said Awareness and Campaigning must not be mixed up.

“If someone know that they are already doing that,  and you are acting on behalf of an intending candidate or you are an intending candidate, I think you should stop,” he said.

“Raising awareness  is different , raising awareness is about helping voters  to access voting services during the registration period or election. ”

Mr Saitala said if people have any complaints in regards to candidates carrying out campaigns in the name of awareness, it could be a fact for investigation.

“From now on if anybody complains about this and they can substantiate that, it will be a fact for investigation,” he said.

“There is nothing wrong with sitting down with you team and planning you campaign strategy.”

BY: Lowen Sei.