Vanuatu Conducts Emergency Election Amid Earthquake Aftermath

Synopsis

Vanuatu is holding a snap election today, a month after a devastating earthquake. Approximately 315,000 voters will select 52 Members of Parliament from 202 candidates at 265 polling stations, with results expected within 21 days. The Australian government is providing humanitarian aid to assist in rebuilding efforts.

Key Takeaways

Snap election amidst earthquake recovery.
315,000 registered voters participating.
202 candidates vying for 52 parliamentary seats.
Polling stations open until 4:30 p.m.
Australian government pledges additional aid.

Suva, Jan 16 (NationPress) Voters are making their way to the polls for Vanuatu's emergency election, despite the aftermath of a significant earthquake occurring one month prior.

Thursday has been designated a public holiday in this Pacific island nation, allowing approximately 315,000 registered voters across 18 constituencies the opportunity to select the next 52 Members of Parliament (MPs).

The Vanuatu Electoral Commission (VEC) has approved 202 eligible candidates for this election, with 265 polling stations open for the voting process.

Polling stations will cease operations at 4:30 p.m. local time.

Principal Electoral Officer Guilain Malessas stated that an unofficial count will take place at all polling locations before the ballot boxes are transported back to the capital Port Vila for the official tally.

As per parliamentary regulations, the inaugural session of the new Parliament must commence within 21 days following the announcement of official election results, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

The emergency election was initiated last November when the opposition sought to remove the government through a motion of no confidence, prompting President Nikenike Vurobaravu to dissolve Parliament at the request of the ministers.

A 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Port Vila on December 17, 2024, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and over 200 injuries.

The Central Business District of Port Vila remains closed as many buildings impacted by the earthquake are still deemed unsafe and classified as risk zones.

On January 11, the Australian government declared additional humanitarian aid for Vanuatu following the deadly earthquake in December.

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy announced a 10 million Australian dollar ($6.1 million) package on Saturday aimed at aiding the restoration of essential services and infrastructure in Vanuatu.

In their joint statement, they indicated that the package would prioritize education, health, and transport, and would be implemented through local systems and partners.

This initiative builds upon the Australian government's initial commitment of seven million Australian dollars ($4.3 million) in practical humanitarian assistance following the earthquake's initial response.