21 Jul 2014

Vanuatu PM warns foreigners against politicking

4:33 am on 21 July 2014

The Vanuatu prime minister, Joe Natuman, has warned foreign workers against getting involved in local politics.

It follows allegations that Chinese nationals have been backing a planned motion of no-confidence against Mr Natuman.

Last week, the opposition claimed that it had the numbers to topple his government but after holding a caucus meeting Mr Natuman says he has the support of 37 of the country's 52 MPs.

After the meeting, Mr Natuman said his office was aware of allegations of involvement of foreigners in Vanuatu politics.

"We have regulations here, immigration and labour laws which say that when you come here you just concentrate on doing business, don't interfere in the internal politics. If we find anybody sponsoring certain political groupings to destabilise government, then we will certainly investigate them."

The Vanuatu prime minister Joe Natuman.