22 Jul 2005

Solomon Islands defers single ballot box voting

1:35 pm on 22 July 2005

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Sir Allan Kemakeza says implementation of single ballot box voting has been deferred until after next year's National Election.

He says Cabinet decided to defer the implementation to allow more time to educate voters about the new system.

Sir Allan says despite the deferment the Government will table the amendment in the November parliamentary sitting.

He says in neighbouring Papua New Guinea there was confusion among voters when the new system was introduced without adequate education and awareness.

Sir Allan says after the Parliament passes the amendment, the new system could be tried out either during the elections for the Honiara City Council or any provincial election.