BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
PREPARATIONS for the upcoming Isabel by-election are well on track, according to Electoral Manager Reuben Dotho.
Mr Dotho confirmed that key logistical and operational arrangements have been completed ahead of polling day, with training for election officials successfully carried out over the weekend.
“So, on Saturday we trained our counting officials. On Sunday and Monday, we trained our polling officials,” he said.
Dotho said contracts for both polling and counting officials have been finalised and signed yesterday.
He said the electoral team will make a final check on election kits before deploying to the polling stations today.
He said polling is expected to begin at 7:00am on the 15th with three candidates contesting for the vacant post.
“Our three candidates who will contest the by-election are Fititei Charles Pado, Neo Obed, and Sopalehe Leonard,” Dotho said.
He said the Royal Solomon Islands Police (RSIPF) will accompany the electoral officials to provide security at the polling sites.
Dotho said he is confident in the level of preparedness ahead of the polling day.
He acknowledges the presence and support of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) staff and the election observers who are already on the ground to support the process.
“There is no threat, so I believe this election will be fair and free,” Mr Dotho said.
Photo: Supplied
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