The Supreme Court of Vanuatu has dismissed a constitutional application filed by some former Members of Parliament challenging the dissolution of Parliament on November 18, 2024.

In his judgment delivered last Friday afternoon, Chief Justice Vincent Lunabek stated that the motion to remove the President of the Republic, labeled Motion 7 of 2024, was submitted to the Speaker of Parliament on November 7, 2024, and remains valid.

The court further ruled that the dissolution of Parliament by the President on November 18, 2024, did not violate any law. Based on this, the court dismissed the constitutional application.

Additionally, the court ordered the applicants to pay 250,000 Vatu to the respondents within 28 days.

The former MPs involved in the case shared their reactions to the decision. Speaking on their behalf, former Port Vila MP and president of the Union of Moderate Parties, Alatoi Ishmael Kalsakau, said they have points to consider and may decide to appeal the case. However, he emphasized that this would be a collective decision after further discussions.

Former Prime Minister and president of the People’s Progressive Party, Sato Kilman Livtunvanu, described the case as significant and historic for Vanuatu’s courts. He stated that any actions taken by authorities must prioritize the interests of the people of the Republic of Vanuatu.

The former MPs have until December 23, 2024, to appeal the case.