POLITICAL PARTIES ACT NEVER BREACH S.I.D.P’S CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS

The High Court has ruled that the Political Parties Integrity Act does not breach constitutional rights of the Solomon Islands Democratic Party.

The Democratic Party had sought High Court clarification on if the Act contravenes the Solomon Islands Constitution in some of its sections.

In its decision, the High Court said an unregistered party cannot select of endorse a party candidate but can continue contesting as an independent candidate of an unregistered political party.

The High Court also clarified that the Solomon Islands Democratic Party is not prohibited from carrying out campaigns, promotions, advocacy, or fundraising as a party at this National General Election.

The High Court ruling explains, this is because the Party does not fall within the words “non-contesting party”, as defined in the Act.

The High Court also clarified that membership of political parties does not is not confined only to registered voters.

The ruling also clarified the Political Parties Integrity Act does prescribe that an unregistered party cannot sign a coalition agreement with a registered party.

The High Court however says this does not stop the Solomon Islands Democratic Party from forming a coalition with other unregistered parties or other Independent MPs but not under the agreement prescribed by the Act.

The ruling was made yesterday.