15 Aug 2023

Political stalemate in Vanuatu as no-confidence vote looms

From , 6:01 am on 15 August 2023

Photo: RNZ/Sally Round

Vanuatu's parliament is scheduled to meet on Wednesday this week to debate a motion of no confidence.

As of Monday, a political stalemate persists - with both the government and the opposition having 25MPs each.

The mover of the motion opposition leader Bob Loughman requires the support of at least 27 members to unseat prime minister Ishmael Kalsakau.

However, Mr Kalsakau also needs a majority in the house if he is to be able to pass legislation going foward.

RNZ Pacific Editor Koroi Hawkins spoke with Vanuatu correspondent Hilaire Bule about the situation in Port Vila.