In the Solomon Islands, the eve of an election is dubbed Devil’s Night, marked by a flurry of last-minute political maneuvers. Candidates resort to offering bribes, ranging from cash to essentials like rice and even Chinese-made solar panels, in a bid to sway votes.
Despite efforts to strengthen electoral laws, vote-buying remains pervasive in the Pacific nation’s elections. However, the focus of global attention on Wednesday’s poll extends beyond this issue.
This remote archipelago holds significant strategic importance in the geopolitical competition between China and the US, along with their ally Australia, for influence in the region.
However, amidst the broader geopolitical concerns, the voters’ attention remains firmly grounded in their immediate needs.
A significant majority of the Solomon Islands’ 700,000 inhabitants reside outside the capital city of Honiara, lacking access to fundamental services such as electricity, healthcare, education, and transportation.
Despite the festive atmosphere on election day, characterized by street celebrations in Honiara and the sound of conch shells at rallies, locals are yearning for tangible improvements.
Expressing her anticipation for the voting process, Judy, a resident who preferred not to disclose her full name, shared her hopes for positive changes ahead.
While acknowledging the government’s involvement in international relations, Solomon Islanders emphasize the importance of prioritizing local issues in the agenda of the upcoming elected leaders, as highlighted by Marklyn Keremama, 44.
He emphasized, “Any government assuming power next must prioritize the desires of the Solomon Islands people… We seek leaders who genuinely address our concerns.”
The Presence of China in the Election Agenda
Wednesday’s election, postponed from the previous year, marks the first opportunity for citizens to cast their votes since the Solomon Islands shifted allegiance from the West to Beijing.
Edward Cavanough’s book “Divided Isles” suggests that the upcoming vote may be seen as a “referendum” on Manasseh Sogavare’s alignment with China, following his travels across the nation.
According to Cavanaugh, the Prime Minister has adeptly guided the geopolitical competition, leveraging relationships with major powers to secure significant concessions.
Situated approximately 1,600km (900 miles) north of Australia, the Solomon Islands grapples with poverty resulting from decades of tribal conflicts.
Australia led a peacekeeping mission until 2017. Two years later, Prime Minister Sogavare shifted allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing. In 2022, a security pact with China was signed, details undisclosed.
This move raised significant concerns among Australia and neighboring Pacific nations. Speculation surfaced regarding the potential establishment of a Chinese naval base in the US-dominated Pacific region, although Mr. Sogavare dismissed such rumors.
If re-elected, the PM vows to deepen ties with China for future prosperity, expressing dislike for Australia and the US. Chinese investment boosts infrastructure. Opponents criticize China’s closeness; some prefer traditional Western allies.
What is the process of the election?
Voters from approximately 900 islands will head to polling stations between 07:00 local time (23:00 GMT) and 16:00 to cast their ballots for national and provincial representatives.
There are 50 parliamentary seats up for grabs, followed by negotiations to form a ruling coalition, where MPs vote internally to elect a prime minister.
Historically, party affiliations have been fluid, with over 100 candidates running as independents. Gender representation remains a persistent concern, with only 20 female candidates in the running.
Pacific analyst Meg Keen from the Australian Lowy Institute observes that two competing coalitions, DCGA and CARE, have fielded sufficient candidates to potentially secure victory.
What are the concerns about the vote?
Aside from the geopolitical implications, analysts underscore the profound significance of this election in consolidating democracy in a nation with a history marred by riots and coups.
The recollection of recent riots in Honiara, including one in 2021 where protesters attempted to set fire to the prime minister’s residence, serves as a stark reminder of the simmering discontent over perceived corruption, persistent poverty, and the country’s alignment with China.
Furthermore, this marks only the second election since the departure of the Australia-led Regional Assistance Mission, further underscoring its importance.
Election observers monitor for fairness and transparency, addressing concerns like “Devil’s Night.” A 2019 report by Australian academics highlighted cash distribution by candidates, questioning electoral integrity.
“In the Solomon Islands, elections revolve primarily around local concerns and promises,” states Dr. Keen. Candidates with significant financial resources and influential supporters often gain an advantage, sometimes resorting to buying votes.
Post-election negotiations involve corruption, with money, promises of ministerial roles, and hotel stays securing support for coalitions. Allegations of Beijing’s election interference emerged, with the Chinese embassy reportedly providing gifts to Malaita province before the vote.
Previous research conducted by Australian academics suggests that both China and Taiwan have contributed to “constituency development funds” for MPs, essentially serving as slush funds. These funds have primarily benefited MPs supporting PM Sogavare, according to Dr. Keen.
