SIEC eyes greater accessibility, lessons from joint election

BY NED GAGAHE
Chief Electoral Officer of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC), Jasper Anisi says improving accessibility for all voters remains a top priority, particularly for persons with disability and the elderly.
Speaking during the launch of the 2024 Elections Research Report, Mr Anisi acknowledged that accessibility challenges are a recurring issue that the Commission addresses ahead of every election.
“The Electoral Act 2018 and the Provincial Assembly and Honiara City Council Election Regulations 2024 clearly require Returning Officers to make appropriate arrangements for electors with disabilities or special needs,” he said.
“This includes ensuring polling stations and booths are accessible.”
He said adjustments have already been made to polling staff manuals to better support voters with disabilities.
Anisi also welcomed the report’s recommendation to explore mobile voting stations to assist voters with mobility challenges or those living in hard-to-reach areas.
Following the historic 2024 joint elections, the SIEC conducted a nationwide lessons-learned initiative with election officers and key stakeholders.
Anisi said this included a high-level workshop where heads of various electoral units presented successes, challenges, and forward-looking recommendations.
“These sessions were not just a review, they were opportunities to hear from across the Commission, refine our processes, and identify operational gaps,” Anisi said.
“We are using this feedback to streamline our preparations for the next joint election in 2028.”
The 2024 Elections Research Report also emphasizes the need for minimum accessibility standards at polling stations and calls for improved support for elderly voters and persons living with disabilities.
The SIEC has signaled its commitment to reviewing these recommendations and implementing reforms that enhance inclusiveness, transparency, and voter confidence.