A record 17 women are among 53 candidates contesting the Port Vila City Council election this month, marking a significant increase in women’s participation.

The Electoral Office announced the final list of candidates last Friday, with Electoral Commission Chairman Edward Kaltamat describing the number of women contesting as a major change.

“This time around, there are many women contesting in Port Vila. In many of the constituencies, their numbers are close to those of the men contesting the election, and I am very happy to see so many women taking part.”

The highest number of women candidates is in the Central Ward, with five women contesting. Anamburu Ward has four women candidates, while Northern and South Wards each have three. Freshwater/Tassiriki Ward has two women candidates.

Of the 53 candidates, 49 are representing nine political parties, while four are independent candidates.

The Union of Moderate Parties has the highest number of candidates with 11, followed by the Vanuatu Party with seven. The Green Confederation, Graon mo Jastis Party and Reunification Movement for Change each have six candidates.

The Rural Development Party has five candidates, while Leaders Party Vanuatu and Independent Candidate has four. The National United Party has three candidates and the Vanuatu National Progressive Party has one.

The candidates are contesting 17 seats on the Port Vila City Council.

With around 38,000 registered voters in Port Vila, Kaltamat is encouraging eligible voters to exercise their right to vote.

“Some polling stations have around 5,000 registered voters, but surprisingly less than half turn up to vote, even though their details are correct. I encourage every registered voter to come forward and exercise your right to vote.”

Campaigning is now underway and will end on August 23. Voting day is set for August 26.