2010 Solomon Islands Election - Departure Statement

In our Interim Statement issued on 6 August 2010, we conveyed our preliminary impressions of the election. On our return from deployment, we exchanged views with domestic and other international observers, met the Electoral Commission and other groups, and continued to follow the count process. In addition to our observations in the field, these exchanges of views have contributed to our final assessment and report, which has now been concluded.

Our report will now be presented to the Commonwealth Secretary-General, who will then convey it to the Government of Solomon Islands, the Speaker of the National Parliament, the Electoral Commission, political parties, and other interested parties in Solomon Islands. Thereafter it will be sent to all Commonwealth Governments prior to being made public.

We depart today mindful that the election of the Prime Minister is yet to take place and a Commonwealth presence to observe this election will be maintained. We urge all candidates and their supporters to remain calm during this crucial phase of the electoral process.

We commend the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) for its professional competence, efficiency and transparency in the preparation and conduct of the elections. As we depart, we wish to express our gratitude to the Chairperson, the Chief Electoral Officer and staff, both in Honiara and the field, not only for the opportunity for us to observe these elections, but also for the assistance accorded to the Group during our mission.

We also wish to thank the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), all political parties and candidates, civil society organisations, and other observers – both domestic and international – for their briefings and support during our work. We extend our particular appreciation to the United Nations for its coordination of the international observation exercise, of which we formed a part.

This has indeed been another landmark election in Solomon Islands. We noted the high expectations that accompanied these elections and laud the people of Solomon Islands for their passion and commitment in supporting a peaceful democratic process.

We trust that our conclusions and recommendations will be received in the constructive spirit in which they are intended and affirm the Commonwealth’s readiness to continue its support for the Government and people of Solomon Islands in the consolidation of its democracy.