8 Nov 2018

Vanuatu govt ministers sacked by acting PM

11:18 am on 8 November 2018

Two government ministers have reportedly been sacked by Vanuatu's acting prime minister.

Bob Loughman was appointed Vanuatu's deputy prime minister following the resignation of Joe Natuman.

Bob Loughman Photo: Facebook / Bob Loughman

The Daily Post newspaper reported Bob Loughman dismissed the Minister of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Jotham Napat and Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Matai Seremaiah.

Their dismissal followed rumours of a motion of no confidence in Prime Minister Carlot Salwai's leadership that has allegedly been signed by over 27 MPs.

The Speaker of Parliament Esmon Simon has denied receiving any motion.

Mr Napat, who is also Vanuatu Leaders Party president, said his group was deeply saddened by the move since no reason had been given.

He said some leaders put their personal agenda ahead of national interests which is something his party does not tolerate.

Mr Napat said they were proud of his party's achievements and policies while in government and said they had contributed to national development.

He said they will continue to work to serve the best interests of the nation and hopes their government colleagues will share the approach of putting the best interests of the country first.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs