Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat has ardently defended the recent constitutional amendments 17A and 17B, which he asserts embody the democratic will of the people following the nation’s inaugural national referendum. Addressing criticism from opposition parties regarding the reforms, Napat characterized their resistance as a “calculated attempt” to thrust the country back into the cyclical political instability that has plagued Vanuatu for decades.
The amendments, which garnered nearly 60 percent approval from voters in May 2024, were designed to address years of political turmoil that witnessed four different prime ministers in just two years and a staggering 20 leadership changes from 1991 to 2017. “It is deeply ironic that those now challenging this process claim to be preserving democracy,” said Prime Minister Napat. He emphasized that the government is committed to honoring the mandate provided by voters.
Napat also reminded the public that the reforms received unanimous parliamentary approval, with all 47 members voting in favor of the amendments in December 2023 before the referendum took place. The government invested VT350 million (US$2.86 million) in a nationwide awareness campaign, reaching 98 percent of the citizenry, including those living abroad.
The referendum was overseen by over 75 international and domestic observers, ensuring its fairness, and the Supreme Court validated the government’s adherence to constitutional requirements just prior to the voting process. Furthermore, Prime Minister Napat highlighted grassroots backing for the reforms, noting a petition with over 1,800 signatures advocating for political stability.
“Our people were crying out for change,” Napat proclaimed, citing how political instability has delayed development and hindered investment, exemplified by the collapse of Air Vanuatu. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fully implementing the reforms to strengthen governance, political party systems, and accountability at all levels. “We will not allow Vanuatu to return to the chaos that has held our nation back for over 30 years. The people have spoken, and this Government will honor their decision,” he stated.
In contrast, the Opposition intends to legally challenge Article 17 of the Constitution, which was also passed in the referendum, arguing that it undermines the democratic rights of elected representatives. Ishmael Kalsakau, the Opposition Leader, contended that Article 17 conflicts with Article 27 of the Constitution, which protects MPs’ independence concerning their constituents’ interests rather than party affiliations. Kalsakau argued that every elected member should prioritize representing their constituents within the parliamentary setting, free from political party interference.
Ultimately, the unfolding political landscape in Vanuatu reflects a pivotal moment where reform efforts not only aim to stabilize governance but also seek to empower citizens by prioritizing their voices in the decision-making process. Such reforms present a hopeful outlook where Vanuatu could foster a more accountable and stable political environment, aligning the governance mechanisms with the aspirations of its populace.
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