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.