Intending candidates in Solomon Islands have been reminded of strict new regulations around registering nominations for this year's general election.
Solomon Islands parliament Photo: RNZ/ Koroi Hawkins
The Electoral Commission has issued a statement reminding all intending candidates, that unlike previous elections, they will need to be present in the constituency they aim to represent during the nomination period to be able to register.
The chief electoral officer Mose Saitala said that all candidates, but particularly those intending to contest the more remote constituencies, needed to make sure their travel arrangements were in place because no exceptions would be made once the nomination period closes.
Other requirements under the country's new Electoral Act include the payment of a non-refundable fee of over $US600 and confirmation of party affiliation for non-independents.
The nomination period will open early next month, the day after the date for the election is set and must close 42 days before polling day.
Chief Electoral Officer of the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission, Moses Saitala, speaks to voters about the Biometric Voter Registration update exercise in Honiara Solomon Islands. 12 August 2018. Photo: Solomon Islands Electoral Commission