Vanua’aku Pati’s Howard Aru says taking up his new role as Member of Parliament for Ambae is a heavy and emotional responsibility, as he replaces his late cousin, John Still Tari Qetu.

The Vanuatu Electoral Commission officially declared Aru the winning candidate this week, filling the vacant parliamentary seat left following Tari Qetu’s passing. Aru qualified for the seat under the Electoral Act after meeting the required 70 per cent threshold as a candidate from the previous election.

Speaking to VBTC News, Aru said he would take on the responsibility with respect and continue the work his late cousin had started to serve the people of Ambae and Vanuatu.

He said he had hoped to enter Parliament during a time of celebration, but instead, his appointment comes during a period of mourning following the sinking of the MV Matui and the death of his cousin.

Hon. Howard Aru, MP for Ambae, said:

“I wish my coming into Parliament was at a time of happiness, but unfortunately, this is a time of mourning, following the tragedy of the MV Matui sinking and the passing of my late cousin, John Still Tari Qetu. I will continue his good work, although no one is perfect , only God knows.”

Aru said he would never forget the service his late cousin had given to the people and pledged to continue working for the constituency.

His appointment also increases Vanua’aku Pati’s representation in Parliament to eight MPs, while the coalition government retains its total of 40 MPs.

Meanwhile, the Vanuatu Electoral Commission has also announced Dickson Mala of the Rural Development Party as the new councillor for Penama Province, replacing the late George Vuti, who died in the MV Matui tragedy.