More than 28,000 registered voters in Port Vila will return to the polls on 26 August to elect a new City Council following the official dissolution of the municipality’s elected council.

Acting Town Clerk Etienne Ravo confirmed to VBTC News that the dissolution took effect on Tuesday last week, bringing an end to the term of all elected councillors.

Mr Ravo said all councillors have now been formally notified that their terms have expired.

With all 14 council seats now vacant, responsibility has shifted to the Electoral Office, which has begun preparations for the upcoming municipal election.

The Electoral Office has confirmed that more than 28,000 eligible voters are expected to take part in the election.

As part of the election timetable, the electoral roll was made available for public inspection one day after the council’s dissolution, allowing voters to check and update their registration details before polling day.