Kiribati Election: Referendum On Rising Costs And China Ties

A Kiribati dancer raises her arms as she welcomes the first sunrise of the new year on Millennium Island, Kiribati, on Jan. 1, 2000. (AP Photo/Katsumi Kasahara, File)

People in Kiribati participated in the first round of voting in a national election, with a second round scheduled for August 19 for parliamentary seats not won by a majority. The election is seen as a referendum on increasing living expenses and the government's alignment with China.

Kiribati, a nation of low-lying atolls with a population of 120,000, faces significant threats from rising sea levels. Despite its strategic location and vast ocean expanse, the country lacks the resource wealth of other Pacific islands. The government's shift from pro-Taiwan to pro-Beijing in 2019, along with its aid dependency and high risk of external debt distress, has raised concerns about foreign influence.

The election will determine 44 of the 45 parliamentary seats, with the presidency to be decided in October. Incumbent Taneti Maamau is expected to seek re-election, focusing on issues such as the cost of living, medicine shortages, and fuel scarcity. The government's introduction of universal unemployment benefits and increased copra subsidies may influence voter decisions.

Election seen as referendum on living expenses and government's alignment with China.

Kiribati held first round of voting, second round scheduled for August 19.

Kiribati faces threats from rising sea levels and lacks resource wealth.

Concerns about Beijing's influence in Kiribati have sparked unease in Western countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Reports of China training Kiribati police officers and suspending foreign judges have fueled tensions. The government's secrecy regarding agreements with China and restrictions on information access have also raised questions.

The election features 115 candidates, including 18 women, with some running unopposed. Political parties in Kiribati are loosely structured, and lawmakers confirm their allegiance only after being elected. The competition for foreign influence has divided the society, challenging its traditional democratic principles and consensus governance.

Despite uncertainties and challenges, voters are engaging in the electoral process, with many expressing support for the incumbent government's policies. The election outcome will not only shape Kiribati's leadership but also its future direction amid complex geopolitical dynamics.