Political parties from the current care taker government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in an effort to retain power following Vanuatu’s recent snap election. The coalition includes the Reunification Movement for Change (RMC), Vanua’aku Party (VP), Leaders Party of Vanuatu (LPV), Graon mo Jastis Party (GJP), and the Iauko Group (IG).
Prior to the 2022 dissolution, the former opposition’s motion accused the care taker government of mismanagement, citing issues such as Air Vanuatu’s financial struggles and the failure to pay teachers’ entitlements. In response, the government requested the dissolution of Parliament, leading to the snap election on January 16 2025.
Despite previous challenges, coalition leaders remain confident that their alliances, including those from the 2016 government, will enable them to maintain stability. Vanua’aku Party president, Johnny Koanapo emphasized the importance of prioritizing national interests, stating, “We are building a foundation, and whenever we negotiate, the paramount interest must be the country.”
Graon mo Jastis Party President Ralph Regenvanu expressed confidence in the coalition’s ability to govern effectively, highlighting concerns about service delivery. “We see major challenges in how the government is providing services to the country, and our team is committed to bringing change,” he said.
Leaders Party President Jotham Napat echoed the need for stability, emphasizing the parties’ collective commitment. “Our country has gone through so much, and finally, we are all coming together to pledge our commitment to working as one,” he stated.
The five-party alliance fielded the highest number of candidates in the election, according to unofficial reports.
Recent constitutional amendments (Sections 17A and 17B) prohibit individual members from switching parties, but entire parties may still change affiliations without consequences.
The coalition has yet to announce its candidate for Prime Minister, stating they will wait for the official election results.
Meanwhile, the Union of Moderate Parties and the Rural Development Party are likely to remain in the opposition, as they are not included in the MOU.
UMP President Ishmael Kalsakau cautioned against premature speculation. “The official results are not out yet. While they appear to have the numbers, it remains to be seen whether they can return to power,” he said, extending best wishes to the eventual Prime Minister.
Kalsakau also stressed the importance of governance in the public interest. “Stability is crucial. If the government performs well, the opposition will support its work. If not, MPs owe it to the people to either ensure the government delivers or seek an alternative that will,” he added.
The Electoral Office has confirmed that official election results will be announced after the 6 PM news on Radio Vanuatu, Wednesday, January 29 2025. Following the announcement, the Clerk of Parliament will convene a session to elect the next Prime Minister.