Solomon Islands government sponsored students studying at the University of the South Pacific (USP) Laucala campus, Fiji have been reminded to stay calm in light of the election today in Fiji.
Reports reaching this paper revealed that local students are being told to remain at their respective halls or homes today while the election process to proceeds.
A student Bernard Obimae said that at the campus curfew started since last week.
“There is no noise at the moment. Security remains tight and all computers and laptops are being monitored by the Information Technologies (IT) to keep track on Facebooks, WhatsApp,Phones and mails or any forms of communication that are in the Laucala Campus that might lead to the leaking of any information or expressing of political opinion through.
“We are in fear of such happening that would happen during this election.
“This is because we are in a foreign land and history of Fiji, there has been coup so we students cannot predict what might happen during this first Democratic election after eight (8) years.
“We are being told by our student body president through emails to remain at our homes or halls,” he said.
The Solomon Islands Students Association (SISA) president has asked all local students to respect the election and continue to keep away from all kinds of political activities.
“Like public gatherings, talanoa, political T/Shirts/slogans, involve in carrying political banners and posters that may deem providing support for specific political groups or parties on the street including face book.
“We are reminded to keep to ourselves and to exercise the highest degree of personal care whether we are in or out of Laucala campus.
“Importantly, we must ensure that we have readily available sufficient food/water and little cash at our vicinity (our rooms/flats or at home) as most shops might close off for the day and of course in light of any unexpected turns of situation,” Obimae quoted a statement from their president.
Meanwhile, he added that a meeting for all Solomon Islands students studying at various institutions in Fiji will be held today. This is being organized by the Solomon Islands High Commissioner in Fiji.
By STEPHEN DI’ISANGO
In Auki