Vanuatu's Opposition is to appeal the ruling of the Supreme Court on the constitutionality of the Parliamentary Secretary positions.
This week the court dismissed claims the appointments violated the constitution despite the Opposition arguing they were not provided for under the constitution or law, yet were being paid out of public funds.
Opposition Leader Ishmael Kalsakau said the issue needs to be resolved urgently as it may affect the next session of parliament on 7 June.
Mr Kalsakau said while he respects the justice system, if the judgment is allowed to stand then it represents a very bad law as it removes the supremacy of Parliament and renders it subservient to the Government.
The Opposition leader gave the example of a Government appointing 12 Ministers and then another 15 -16 Parliamentary Secretaries to prop up their support and effectively become a majority.
Mr Kalsakau said that is against the spirit of the Constitution and against the rights of MPs.
The Vanuatu Supreme Court building in Port Vila. Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana
