The West Baegu/Fataleka Ward 5 by-election in Malaita Province was conducted peacefully, with no incidents reported throughout polling and counting.
Polling opened at 7:00am and closed successfully at 4:00pm on Wednesday. This was followed by vote counting on Thursday, when the final results were announced.
Observers noted that a majority of voters across the seven polling stations in Ward 5 turned up early, shortly after polling began.
During the counting process, the atmosphere remained calm, with supporters waiting patiently at the counting station.
Police officers on duty confirmed that no criminal activity or disturbances were recorded during polling day.
A police officer stationed at Rufoki polling station, John Junior, told this paper that voting at the station proceeded without incident from opening to closing.
“There were no signs of disturbance throughout the day,” he said.
A provincial government security official based in Auki, who was present during the counting, also confirmed the process was carried out peacefully.
He thanked supporters and members of the public for their orderly conduct during the by-election.
The election manager for the West Baegu/Fataleka Ward 5 by-election also Peter Herehura confirmed that the entire process was peaceful, with no disturbances reported to his office during polling or counting.
He acknowledged the cooperation of candidates’ supporters, who respected electoral laws and allowed officials to carry out their duties effectively.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
