13 Nov 2018

Ousted Vanuatu minister says his support is up for grabs

From , 5:03 am on 13 November 2018

A former minister ousted from Vanuatu's government is refusing to rule out voting with the opposition should a motion against it arise.

Matai Seremiah and Jotham Napat, who are members of the Leaders Party, were sacked last week, apparently because of disgruntlement at their growing strength within the coalition.

That sparked speculation that another motion to oust the government could be looming, and the Leaders Party's votes could give the opposition the numbers needed.

When he swore in three new ministers on Saturday, Prime Minister Charlot Salwai said his support had been shored up.

An ousted minister, Matai Seremiah, told Jamie Tahana the move from within the government to sack a coalition partner had been building for a while.

Vanuatu parliament building in the capital Port Vila.

Vanuatu parliament building in the capital Port Vila. Photo: RNZI/ Walter Zweifel