SIEC Confirms Preparations Underway for Malaita and Isabel Provincial By-Elections

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The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) has confirmed that preparations for two provincial by-elections in Malaita and Isabel Provinces are progressing well.
Responding to enquiries regarding vacancies in the Malaita and Isabel Provincial Assemblies, SIEC said the by-elections will be conducted for the West Baegu Constituency in Fataleka, Malaita Province, and the Koviloko Ward in the Maringe/Kokota Constituency, Isabel Province.
The Commission clarified that despite the recent relocation of its office following a fire incident, its operations have since returned to normal and preparations for the by-elections have not been affected.
SIEC confirmed that it has formally received, through the Minister for Provincial Government, an official notice from the Speaker of the Malaita Provincial Assembly declaring a vacancy for the West Baegu seat following the death of the late Daniel Suidani last year. However, the Commission is still awaiting receipt of the corresponding vacancy notice from the Speaker of the Isabel Provincial Assembly for the Koviloko Ward, following the death of its Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA), Frank Gregory Koutini, in 2025.
Once all legal requirements are fulfilled and both vacancy notices are received, SIEC will formally notify the Minister for Provincial Government to set a date for the two by-elections, which are expected to be conducted simultaneously.
The Commission assured the public that it is fully prepared to conduct both by-elections once the Minister issues the official notice. The elections are expected to take place within the first quarter of this year, and SIEC will continue to provide updates as preparations progress.