BY JUNELYN KELLY
The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) has officially announced the opening of nomination for candidates contesting the upcoming by-elections in the West Baegu and Koviloko wards.
The SIEC statement said the nomination commenced on Wednesday, February 18 and will be concluded at 4pm on March 4.
This 14-day nomination window follows the publication of the Election Date Gazette notice, which confirms the date for both by-elections on April 15, 2026.
Jasper Highwood Anisi, Chief Electoral Officer, emphasised the strict criteria individuals must meet to contest these by-elections.
Prospective candidates must:
-Be at least 21 years of age
-Be a register voter in the province where they are contesting.
-Be nominating by three registered voters from their respective ward.
-Pay a non-refundable nomination fee of $2,500
Anisi said that prospective candidates are encouraged to visit designated nomination centres in person to submit their nominations before 4pm on March 4.
The specific nomination centres have been confirmed:
- for West Baegu nomination will be at Malaita Provincial Chamber Conference room 2 in Auki Malaita Province.
- For Koviloko Ward nominations will be accepted at the DFL Centre Building in Buala Isabel Province.
Candidates are reminded of the crucial requirements to bring their nominators who must be registered voters in the ward being contested to the nomination Centre to successfully completed process, Anisi said.
Following the close of nomination a ballot paper draw will be conducted to determine the candidates’ positions on the ballot.
He said any candidate wishing to withdraw their nomination must notify the returning Officer for their respective ward ln writing within 48 hours from the close of nominations.
Photo: SIEC
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