Solomon Islands: The Pacific election being closely watched by China and the West - BBC News

The impoverished Solomon Islands is holding its first election since the country's pivot to Beijing.

8 hours agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, BBC MEDIA ACTIONImage caption, It's a festive atmosphere in the capital Honiara on election day with supporters dancing to music and blowing through conch shellsBy Frances MaoBBC NewsIn the Solomon Islands, the night before an election is known as Devil's Night.

Political candidates offer bribes, handing out everything from cash to sacks of rice and Chinese-made solar panels to secure votes last minute.

Vote-buying is a common tactic in the Pacific nation's elections - hard to stamp out, despite toughened electoral laws.

But that is not why some of the world's biggest powers are paying such close attention to Wednesday's poll.

This remote island nation plays a crucial role in the jostling between China and the US - with its ally Australia - for influence in the region.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-68824299

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