The Vanuatu Electoral Commission has reminded Political Parties and Candidates that they have 21 days to file an election petition if they identify any procedural irregularities in the electoral process.

Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Edward Kaltamat, emphasized that the law grants the right to challenge election results through legal means within this timeframe.

“There are 21 days after the announcement. If you have any issue or find something in the election procedures that is not correct, you have the right to file a petition,” Kaltamat stated.

He further disclosed that the Electoral Commission has been made aware of irregularities at polling stations.

“It has come to the attention of the Electoral Commission that certain irregularities occurred at polling stations. We do not take this lightly. Under the new electoral law, we now have the authority to prosecute individuals attempting to manipulate or abuse the system. The Commission is taking this matter very seriously and will bring cases to court to address such issues,” he added.

The statement underscores the Electoral Commission’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in Vanuatu’s electoral process.