Kiribati has defended its decision to impose a travel ban on foreign diplomats during its national elections, citing concerns over potential foreign influence during the government formation process. The head of Kiribati’s delegation at the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders meeting made this announcement.
The ban, which restricts diplomatic visits until 2025, was implemented two weeks ago and has drawn significant controversy. Kiribati has urged its diplomatic and development partners to understand this measure, which aims to protect the integrity of the election process.
The move comes as President Taneti Maamau, who orchestrated Kiribati’s diplomatic shift from Taiwan to China in 2019, seeks re-election for a third and final term.
The PIF has noted that it was not invited to observe the election, and the Kiribati Elections Commission has not responded to inquiries from RFA affiliate BenarNews regarding international observers.
Alexander Teabo, Kiribati’s Minister for Education and representative at the PIF meeting in Tonga, stated that the government aims to avoid repeating past errors and maintain a fair electoral process.
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