Free, fair and peaceful elections

RAMSI calls for free, fair and peaceful elections

Submitted Fri, 30/07/2010 - 3:46pm

Friday 30 July 2010

RAMSI Special Coordinator, Graeme Wilson, today urged Solomon Islanders to respect each other’s democratic rights when taking part in next week’s national elections.

Mr. Wilson said RAMSI was encouraging all Solomon Islanders to make their contribution to free, fair and peaceful elections by respecting other voters and acting responsibly on polling day.

“Everyone needs to play their part in supporting a safe and fair election process,” he said. “It is the conduct of the community that will deliver this nation free elections.”

Mr. Wilson said he had a high level of confidence in the security preparations that have been made for the elections by the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), supported by RAMSI’s Participating Police Force and military contingent.

“RAMSI has been working very closely with the RSIPF over a considerable period of time on election security preparations,” Mr. Wilson said, “and I am happy with the level of cooperation and coordination that has been achieved.”

Mr. Wilson welcomed the statements by a number of senior Solomon Islands leaders publicly urging the community to respect the electoral processes.

“There is no doubt that this election and the Government it produces will shape the future progress and stability of the nation.

“This makes it even more important that all voters are able to exercise their democratic rights free of intimidation, bribery or corruption.”

RAMSI’s Electoral Strengthening Program has been providing support to the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission in the areas of election planning and voter awareness.

ENDS

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