South Pacific: Snap Election in Vanuatu
AP
President Vurobaravu of Vanuatu has announced a snap election following a vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Charlot Salwai. This is the fifth change of government in Vanuatu since 2022.
Simply put, this is a significant issue, despite efforts such as the referendum held earlier this year, which aimed to enhance stability and foster confidence in the government. Parliament located in the capital of Port Vila, operates under a unicameral system with 55 elected members representing the islands of Sanma, Malampa, Penama, Shefa, Tafea, and Torba. However, trust in these institutions is faltering. Political maneuvers based on self-interest over the national interest neglect community concerns including the impacts of climate change and economic instability due to low GDP growth and high inflation compared to the wider Oceania region.
2024 Referendum: A missed opportunity?
The rise in political activism and vocalization amongst young people during the referendum showcased a platform demanding political stability in governance to address the people's concerns. A central element of protests in November 2023 was a call for integrity in Parliament. As such, the purpose of the referendum was to amend the constitution by adding articles 17A and 17B that would prevent political maneuvers by MPs from party hopping.
A year on from the protests, the first national referendum was successful. However, self-interest over national interest remains. Dr Tess Newton, an analyst for the Pacific region, positioned the referendum as being designed to tinker with the edges of Vanuatu politics. Moreover, Dr Newton claimed instability exists within the DNA of the political system due to a previous history of political infighting leading to instability across the system.
The referendum is historic in Vanuatu politics due to it being the first in the country's history, and seeking big changes to improve the lives of ni-Vanuatu. According to Freedom House, Vanuatu scored 82 out of 100 on the Global Freedom Score due to the independence of the Judiciary in combating political corruption and other issues that undermine stability in government. Despite multiple elections since 2022, as well as events such as the referendum and the President's decision to dissolve Parliament, democracy continues to thrive and remains a priority for young people.
Social and Cultural Dimensions
The public frustration with the Vanuatu political system has led to an erosion of trust among community leaders. Seventh-Day Adventist Pastor Dorolyn Laloyer has stated the election is unfair to people who have been hoping for something better. Domestic issues such as the economy and industrial action by teachers have impacted access to services. The estimated costs to run an election campaign within the next 60 days is estimated between 80-90 million Vatu (USD 646,670.00), with community groups arguing the money could go elsewhere to help the people of Vanuatu.
Election Campaign 2025
With the snap-election set for January 14th 2025, and the closure of voter registration on December 3rd, it is an interesting period in Vanuatu politics with wider implications for the region in addressing global concerns of climate change. Andrew Napuat, responsible for being the caretaker of Internal Affairs, declared “we are embarking on a significant milestone in our nation’s political landscape”. The Honorary Ralph Regenvanu, the former minister of climate and foreign affairs, has been vocal in his concerns of Vanuatu not providing significant diplomatic representation, as the dissolution occurred whilst COP 29 was being held in Baku, Azerbaijan. Mr Regenvanu made formal representations at the International Court of Justice seeking financial liability to those countries severely impacted by the effects of climate change, such as Vanuatu.
Mr Napuat aims to increase citizenship participation in the democratic process through the Vanuatu Electoral Office (VEO), and “to work together to build a strong, sustainable political party system that supports development, nation building and transparency”. The efforts from the referendum are occurring, as the VEO is strengthening the process of party registration to prevent party hopping of members. Thereby, strengthening the political system for the next Government.
