The Vanuatu Government has allocated a total budget of over 90 million vatu to conduct two major elections scheduled for July 8, 2025 — the provincial council elections and by-elections for Santo and Port Vila Freshwota-Tasiriki Ward.

Principal Electoral Officer (PEO) Guilain Malessas confirmed the breakdown of the budget in an interview with VBTC News yesterday morning. He explained that 68 million vatu has been allocated to cover the costs of the provincial elections in Tafea, Shefa, Penama, and Malampa provinces. An additional 23 million vatu has been set aside for the two by-elections in Santo and Port Vila.

Malessas highlighted that transportation, allowances for workers, and ballot paper production are some of the biggest cost drivers in every election.

Chairman of the Vanuatu Electoral Office, Edward Kaltamat, also spoke to VBTC News, expressing concern about low voter turnout during provincial elections.

“When we develop the reports, you can clearly see that voter turnout at polling stations during provincial elections is very low. Many people do not show up to vote, unlike in general elections where the turnout is much higher,” Kaltamat said.

He reminded the public that all elections — whether provincial, urban, or general — are equally important.

“Your vote carries your ideas, values, and hopes. By voting, you choose someone to represent you. We must not take any election lightly.”

With the budget now approved, the Vanuatu Electoral Office is moving forward with preparations for the upcoming elections in July.