Thousands of citizens call for government transparency on Members of Parliament’s (MP) ‘ allowances, urging funds to be directed towards critical public services.

A petition opposing the proposed increase in parliamentary allowances in Vanuatu has been delivered to the Leader of the Opposition and the Speaker of Parliament. The Vanuatu Association of Non-Government Organizations (VANGO) formally submitted this petition on Wednesday, with over 1,000 signatures collected both on Efate and online.

Dr. Willie Tokon, Chair of VANGO and Chief Executive Officer of Transparency International Vanuatu, outlined several key reasons behind the petition. “Firstly, we question why there is a need to increase these allowances. Secondly, we are concerned about the lack of reporting on MPs’ allowance usage, particularly since reports suggests that these funds are deposited into personal bank accounts. Lastly, there are numerous pressing issues in the country that require funding, such as our grounded national airline, teachers on strike, the high cost of living, poor road conditions, and declining health and education services.”

Dr. Tokon emphasised the critical need for funding in health and education sectors, especially in remote areas where residents struggle to access these services. He highlighted examples of patients in East Pentecost who must be transported over hills to access medical aid and the struggle in South Paama, where patients are carried on makeshift stretchers over hills to reach healthcare.

The government, he added, should prioritise transparency and accountability, even though the allowance increase bill is not yet approved.

Meanwhile, Hon. Johnny Koanapo, President of the Vanua’ aku Party, a major party in the government, refrained from commenting on the matter, stating he had not yet seen the bill.