Hundreds of citizens, national leaders, community representatives, and invited guests gathered today at Independence Park in Port Vila to commemorate Vanuatu’s 46th Independence anniversary.

The annual celebration was attended by visiting dignitaries, including Timor-Leste President His Excellency José Ramos-Horta, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, and members of the diplomatic corps.

Citizens from across the country came together wearing the national colours and proudly displaying the Vanuatu flag to mark the nation’s journey since gaining independence on 30 July 1980. The large turnout followed calls earlier this week by some individuals encouraging citizens to boycott the flag-raising ceremony as a protest over allegations of corruption and concerns about accountability within the country.

Despite those calls, many citizens continued to participate in the national celebration, showing their support for Vanuatu’s Independence Day and its values of unity, identity, and resilience.

In his Independence message, President Nikenike Vurobaravu reminded citizens that Independence was more than a political achievement, saying it represented the identity and unity of Ni-Vanuatu people.

“Independence is not only a political success. It reflects our identity as a people, coming together as one. It strengthens our commitment to good governance, respect for the Constitution, protection of our culture, and our faith in God.” The President also called on citizens and leaders to uphold the Constitution and place the national interest above personal, regional, or political differences. “National unity remains our greatest strength. We must continue to build bridges of understanding and cooperation between our islands, our communities, and our people.”

President Vurobaravu highlighted the resilience of the Ni-Vanuatu people in overcoming challenges, including natural disasters, economic difficulties, and the impacts of climate change.

Prime Minister Jotham Napat said this year’s celebration was a time to reflect on the sacrifices of the country’s founding leaders while looking ahead with renewed determination.

He said the theme for this year’s celebration, “Vanuatu Yumi Bild Tugeta,” reflected the responsibility of all citizens to contribute to national development. “Standing is not the end of our journey. Standing is the way a people prepares to take the next step.

A people strong enough to stand is also strong enough to build.”

The Prime Minister said building Vanuatu required the involvement of everyone, including traditional leaders, churches, communities, businesses, parents, teachers, young people, farmers, and public servants.

“The government cannot build this nation alone. This work is the responsibility of all of us.” Prime Minister Napat also identified economic transformation, education, health, and stronger Ni-Vanuatu participation in the economy as key priorities as the country moves towards its 50th Independence anniversary in 2030.

Both leaders called on citizens to continue working together to build a stronger, more resilient, and united Vanuatu for future generations.