MALAITA, Solomon Islands: Peter Kenilorea, a leading contender for the Solomon Islands’ next prime minister, has vowed to abolish a security treaty with China as the nation commenced vote counting in a pivotal general election on Thursday.
Speaking from his village base on Malaita Island, Kenilorea emphasized his intention to scrap the security pact with China, citing perceived lack of benefits for the Solomon Islands.
The election, which took place on Wednesday, is being closely watched as a referendum on China’s influence in the region. Kenilorea’s stance underscores the stakes for the Solomon Islands and the broader South Pacific.
The centerpiece of current Prime Minister Sogavare’s approach has been a contentious 2022 security pact involving Chinese police presence on the island, which critics fear could pave the way for a Chinese military base.
In contrast, Kenilorea advocates rekindling ties with “traditional partners” like Australia, the United States, and Taiwan, emphasizing the need to avoid unnecessary geopolitical tensions.
As ballots were transported to a heavily guarded counting center in Honiara, international observers including Fijian soldiers and Australian police monitored the process amid concerns of foreign interference.
Allegations of foreign interference, including claims from Chinese news outlets suggesting US involvement in potential disruptions, have heightened tensions surrounding the election.
US Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock refuted these claims, denouncing them as “blatantly misleading” and asserting that the US government did not seek to influence the election.
Despite the geopolitical backdrop, Chief Electoral Officer Jasper Anisi reported a peaceful atmosphere during the vote counting process, a significant development in a nation where past elections have been marred by violence.
The next phase will involve elected parliament members negotiating behind closed doors to form a ruling coalition, ultimately leading to the selection of a new prime minister.
