Overloading at political parades concern

Overloading at political parades concern, SIEC suggests candidates seek HCC & police permission

The Solomon Islands Electoral Commission says it laws do not cover overloading of vehicles during candidate parades but it is covered under traffic laws.

With the political campaigns now edging towards climax with voting only weeks away, Honiara has witnessed truck loads of candidates and their supporters parading and heading to launching sites this has triggered concerns on safety.

Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Anisi said in his personal view any candidates wishing to parade must apply to the Honiara City Council and Police to seek permission.

He said this is the usual practice required for those wanting to stage marches or parades just like NGOs or other organisations usually do in Honiara.

Anisi said the HCC and Police will approve or disapprove depending on the risks.

He reiterated that though the Electoral Laws don’t cover it is covered by other laws.

Anisi said police has the right to stop parades if they breach traffic laws, citing one example that when a hilux is only designated to carry fewer people but it instead drives around with 30 plus passengers.

Historically big parades happen 48 hours before the polling day and this time around as suggested by the SIEC candidates must seek approval before they can parade.

Meanwhile, the RSIPF and SIEC had last week signed an MOU which would cover this area as well.