INTERNATIONAL ELECTIONS August 2024

Kiribati :-

The most common commentary regarding the 2024 Kiribati National Parliamentary elections highlighted several key outcomes

1. Increased Female Representation: A record five women were elected to parliament, which was widely praised as a step forward for gender representation in Kiribati politics. This was viewed as a positive outcome, reflecting a shift towards greater inclusivity.
2. Stable Government Continuity: Many voters signalled through their votes that they preferred continuity rather than major political changes. The Tobwaan Kiribati Party (TKP), led by President Taneti Maamau, retained a significant presence, suggesting a desire for stability.
3. Challenges in Counting and Recounts: There were some issues with the vote-counting process during the first round, leading to recounts and delays. However, improvements were noted in the second round, and these challenges were more procedural than indicative of any systemic unfairness.‍
4. Local Issues Focused on: Public debate during the elections focused on bread-and-butter issues like health, education, and household income, with little mention of larger geopolitical concerns.

Overall, the elections were seen as a legitimate and largely fair process, with notable improvements in representation and governance stability.

Sint Maarten :-

The most common commentary on the August 2024 Sint Maarten parliamentary elections highlights the significant shifts in political dynamics, particularly the loss of key figures like former Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs. The National Alliance's decline in voter support and the rise of the Unified Resilient St. Maarten Movement (URSM) are seen as major outcomes. Critics expressed concerns about the instability leading to snap elections, while others viewed the process as a reflection of evolving voter preferences and coalition-building​.URSM’s New Coalition of URSM,DP and PFP is now forming Government after August 19^th elections and Luc Marcelina has been Appointed as formatuer to form the Next Government under the Post Poll Coalition Agreement thereby to be confirmed as Prime Minister Once again for a second term after the collapse of his Jan 2024 Government which led to the Snap Polls in August 19^th 2024.