Lawmakers in the Solomon Islands voted Thursday to delay their nation's general election from next year until 2024, a move that opponents say amounts to a power grab and that some fear could lead to further civil unrest.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said the seven-month delay, which required a constitutional amendment, was necessary because the nation is hosting the Pacific Games next year. He said holding an election at the same time would be too costly and logistically challenging.
