Solomon Islands – WOMEN CANDIDATES: Solomon Star News

18 women to contest Solomon Islands election

09 JULY 2010 HONIARA (SOLOMON STAR) ---- Eighteen women in Solomon Islands this week declared they are contesting the 04 August national elections

Seven of them stepped out to introduce themselves to a large crowd in Honiara.

This was during a theme song competition the Women in Shared Decision Making (WISDOM) organised to select a theme song the women will use during their campaign.

WISDOM is an organisation the women formed to help them in their campaign. Those who introduced themselves told the crowd why they want to contest, where they will contest and whether they will contest as independent candidates or with a party.

The seven that appeared on the stage were Doreen Linga (South New Georgia Tetepari), Hellen Hilly (Maravo), Hilda Kii (North West Guadalcanal), Rhoda Sikilabu (Gao Bugotu), Delma Nori (Central Honiara), Julieth Keti (East Honiara) and Cathrine Atanakakia (West Honiara).

The 11 who are already out on the campaign trail are: Jane Tozaka (Kia Hograno), Richael Theo (Maringe Kokota), Cathrine Adifaka (East Honiara), Betty Gigisi (South Guadalcanal), Rose Anilabata (Central Kwara'ae), Gloria Sibisopere (North New Georgina Vona Vona), Selina Boso (North New Georgia and Vona Vona), Nairie Alamu (South New Georgia) and Nesta Marahora (Central Makira).

Delma Nori, who is vying for the Central Honiara seat said the country cannot move forward if there is no fair representation in parliament.

In the 2006 elections, 26 women contested but none of them gets a seat. This year they are confident some of them would find their way into parliament. ..PNS (ENDS)