The Vanuatu Electoral Commission has officially released the list of candidates contesting the upcoming Provincial and By-Elections.

But with elections just weeks away, many citizens are still raising questions — particularly about when long-standing infrastructure issues, especially poor road conditions, will finally be addressed.

Now that the names of candidates are public, many people are calling for real change in how national issues are handled, with roads topping the list.

VBTC News went into communities to hear what people are thinking and found that one of the most urgent concerns remains the state of local roads.

A representative chief from Tamalas Zone 5, Chief George John, expressed his community’s frustration and called for honest leadership.

“We cast our votes, but once elected, what work are they really doing? Our roads are still in bad shape. Our community keeps voting — one person after another — but nothing changes. And this is happening in other areas too,” Chief George said.

He added that future councillors need to approach politics with a genuine commitment to development.

The Vanuatu Electoral Commission officially launched the campaign period this week. Campaigning will run until 5 July, with election day set for 8 July.

A total of 248 candidates have been confirmed to contest the elections, which include four provincial elections and two by-elections in different constituencies.