THE Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), at the Rove Police Headquarters in Honiara.
Speaking during the signing, RSIPF Commissioner, Matthew Varley says, “This event is a milestone for our preparations towards the National General Election next year (2019).
“As RSIPF, we are taking that challenge extremely seriously as part of our responsibility for national security, law and order in this community, one and half years since the end of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands.”
“This MoU establishes the framework for cooperation between the RSIPF and the Electoral Commission, which is essential for the planning and the good conduct of a fair and free election.”
This MoU provides a platform for cooperation between the RSIPF and SIEC to:
-Recognise community expectations to deliver a fair and safe 2019 National General Election, understanding the importance of security;
-Conduct joint planning of activities in respect to the National General Election and the related police led security operations;
-Establish reciprocal liaison officer arrangements within the SIEC and RSIPF operation centres, and other locations as deemed appropriate;
-Collaborate to ensure sufficient funding is available to provide for a free and safe 2019 General Election;
-Share information in the lead-up to and delivery of the Election;
-Develop joint training opportunities in the lead-up to the Election;
-The MoU will conclude at a formal review meeting to be held one calendar month after the National General Election is conducted.
–POLICE MEDIA
