Honiara Central Market meeting place for the diverse ethnic groups in Solomon Islands, and produce is transported there from across the whole country. Furthermore, it has been typified as an indication of the state of the country as a whole. In 2006, the Honiara City Council allocated part of the market's space for the sale of a consistent range of flowers and pot plants all year round. In 2014, there were around a thousand market vendors, of which 80% were estimated to be women. Males also help unloading and setting up market produce. The Honiara City Council is responsible for collecting waste from
2008 East Honiara by-election "Solomon Times" reported that many voters and other residents stayed "around to watch the whole day", viewing the election as "entertainment". The newspaper also reported that the election was "filled with drama, with candidates and supporters accusing certain camps of corrupt dealings". The following candidates finished first, second and third, respectively. Silas Milikada -described by the "Solomon Times" as a "private businessman"- was duly elected MP for East Honiara. Dr. George Manimu contested the result, claiming "corrupt dealings and voting irregularities", unsuccessfully. 2008 East Honiara by-election The East Honiara by-election, 2008 was a by-election for the East Honiara constituency in