Little faith in Solomons post-coup poll

HONIARA - Plagued with violence and facing bankruptcy, the scattered South Pacific island chain of the Solomon Islands goes to the polls tomorrow, 18 months after an ethnic militia coup.

Residents and diplomats fear that unless a strong leader emerges to restore law and order, the island nation's very existence will be under threat.

"It's make or break," one diplomat in the capital Honiara said yesterday. "If the country continues the way it is, it will gradually fragment and collapse."

The Solomons - scene of some of the fiercest fighting in the Pacific in the Second World War - has been devastated by ethnic fighting in the past two years, leaving about 100 people dead, the economy in ruin and a serious law and order problem in the capital.

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare came to power in June 2000 after his predecessor agreed to militia demands to resign, but he is not assured of re-election.

Analysts say the election is a lottery with the only certainty a coalition government as political parties only exist for elections and elected MPs will vote for the prime minister.

"I would not put my money on any of them," said the diplomat when asked who was most likely be the next prime minister.

Despite a peace deal in 2000 and the presence of international peacekeepers, shootings, beatings and widespread intimidation and theft have plagued Honiara in recent months. Police say some 500 high-powered weapons have still not been handed in under the peace deal and there are an unknown number of homemade weapons made from discarded Second World War arms.

Armed gangs roam Honiara with virtual immunity as many former militia colleagues are "special constables" in the police force.

"The police are trying hard, but how do you arrest yourself," said one resident in despair.

Police say they are confident the 1000 officers, including some 400 "special constables", will ensure a peaceful election, but foreign election observers fear voter intimidation.

Most believe the more dangerous period will be when MPs gather in Honiara next week to begin the process of electing a prime minister, which is expected to be around December 17.

"I am more concerned after the voting and counting because that is when unhappy supporters are likely to do something," said deputy police commissioner Wilfred Akao.

Honiara is in a crumbling state of disrepair.

Many businesses remain closed after the coup and others struggle to survive with power rationing and poor water supplies. Public servants and teachers have not been paid for weeks.

Solomon Airlines has been grounded owing to safety breaches and many interisland ferries are unable to pay for fuel to operate.

The Solomons comprise approximately 900 islands.

- REUTERS