By-elections for 2 vacant seats expected in 2027

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By-elections to fill the two vacant parliamentary seats following the deaths of Ulawa-Ugi MP, the late William Marau, and South New Georgia, Rendova and Tetepare MP, the late David Gina, are now expected to take place next year.

Chief Electoral Officer Jasper H. Anisi exclusively told SBM that the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), through his office, has begun initial discussions on preparations for the two by-elections.

Anisi said the elections could be held in either the first or second quarter of 2027.

He confirmed that funding for both by-elections has already been factored into his office’s budget for next year.

According to Anisi, conducting each by-election is estimated to cost between $900,000 and $1 million.

This means the Government will need to allocate approximately $2 million to conduct the two by-elections.

The two parliamentary seats became vacant following the deaths of Marau and Gina in October this year, leaving their respective constituencies without representation in Parliament.

Further details on the election timetable and preparations are expected as the Electoral Commission progresses with its planning.