Authorities in Vanuatu's customs department have questioned the cultural value of the country's independence medal after the head of state presented one of their officers with the medal for refusing a bribe and then went on to present the same medal to a former customs officer who was dismissed for bribery.
Customs authorities say the presentation of the second medal by President John Bani was a slap in the face for their department.
They say the young man concerned was related to the president.
A spokesperson from the State Office confirmed that the man's name was not on the list of candidates who received awards.
