The international delegates observed polling in polling stations in 29 of 50 constituencies. These observers' assessment is that the polling process was well conducted and transparent, and that voters were able to exercise a free and secret vote.
While we observed some minor technical issues in particular polling stations, our assessment is that these were not significant enough to compromise the integrity of the overall process.
Our observation of the counting to date indicates that it is being conducted and tabulated in a careful and transparent manner. We noted concerns about the accuracy and currency of the electoral roll.
We support calls by Chief Electoral Officer, Mr Polycarp Haununu, for a comprehensive review of the electoral roll as a priority. Observers were concerned that a number of registered voters, including polling staff and police, were not able to vote due to the absence of any system for "out of area" voting.
We would strongly encourage Solomon Islands authorities to consider introducing such a system in the future. We also noted that, in a limited number of polling stations, a number of registered voters waiting in line to vote were not able to do so due to the close of polling stations at 5pm.
