Opposition Leader Ishmael Kalsakau is calling on the Government and relevant authorities to urgently find answers over the sinking of the MV Matui and hold those responsible accountable.

It has now been 28 days since the incident, with more than 30 people still missing, while affected families continue to grieve.

Speaking to VBTC News, Kalsakau said authorities must establish how the vessel sank, how it left the wharf and whether its capacity and safety requirements were properly followed.

“Of course, there must be answers on how the ship sunk or how it left the wharf, the capacity. There must be people responsible, as lives lost at sea is too big. We must be careful on how we comment on this issue because things are sensitive now, and we must let the families be at peace. This issue is a devastation, and we are people who use the ocean, but it is something that should have never happened.”

Kalsakau also commented on the Prime Minister’s decision to place Vanuatu Maritime Safety under his office, saying the move alone will not resolve the issue.

“I saw that the Prime Minister has taken a decision, but I think it does not resolve an issue. I am sure that the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries is capable of resolving this issue. We must find answers to this issue and people must be held accountable so there can be restoration. Yes, we can throw flowers in the sea, but we must find answers to these at the highest level to make sure this does not happen again. People at Maritime Services must change their attitude, and we must find out who is responsible and they must be held accountable.”

Kalsakau is calling for the Government and relevant authorities to work together and act quickly to provide answers and assurance to the families directly affected by the tragedy.

Government response

The call comes as Prime Minister Jotham Napat has acknowledged serious failures within Vanuatu’s maritime safety system following the recent sea tragedies.

During the national mourning and tribute day, Napat said the Government would pursue an independent investigation into the MV Matui tragedy and examine issues including vessel licensing, passenger loading, clearance to sail, the actions of the captain and crew, and the responsibilities of ship owners and government agencies.

He said if negligence or wrongdoing is established, those responsible could face prosecution.

“No truth shall be hidden.”

Napat also announced plans to strengthen maritime safety, enforcement and search-and-rescue operations, saying the Government must learn from the tragedy and prevent further loss of life at sea.

He said the investigation and reforms would aim to ensure vessels are properly certified and safe before sailing, while marine weather warnings are properly enforced.