Jotham Napat Becomes Vanuatu’s New PM

Jotham Napat was elected as Vanuatu’s new Prime Minister, securing the position unopposed. His nomination was proposed by Charlot Salwai, leader of the Reunification Movement for Change and a former prime minister. Ishmael Kalsakau, another former prime minister and MP for Port Vila, confirmed there were no other nominations and congratulated Napat on his election.

Alongside the new prime minister, Stephen Felix, former judge and MP for Efate Rural Constituency, was elected as Speaker of Parliament unopposed. Felix urged MPs to prioritize Vanuatu’s national interests in governance. The House of Parliament also elected four Deputy Speakers, all without opposition. The formation of the coalition government includes five political parties: Leaders Party, Vanua’aku Party, Graon Mo Jastis Party, Reunification Movement for Change, and the Iauko Group.

Key Highlights of the Election

Jotham Napat’s Election as Prime Minister

• Jotham Napat was elected as Vanuatu’s Prime Minister unopposed.
• His nomination was submitted by Charlot Salwai, leader of the Reunification Movement for Change.
• Ishmael Kalsakau, a former prime minister, confirmed that no other candidates contested the position.
• Napat represents the Tanna Constituency in Parliament.

Watch: Daily Current Affairs

Stephen Felix Elected as Speaker of Parliament

• Stephen Felix, MP for Efate Rural Constituency, was elected as Speaker of Parliament unopposed.
• Felix is a former judge and a member of the Leaders Party.
• In his opening remarks, he thanked MPs for their support and emphasized the importance of serving Vanuatu’s interests.

Four Deputy Speakers Elected Unopposed

The Parliament also appointed four Deputy Speakers, all elected uncontested,

• John William Timakata (Vanua’aku Party, Shepherds Constituency) – First Deputy Speaker
• Macrellino Barthelemy (Independent, Malekula) – Second Deputy Speaker
• Paul Paolo (Graon Mo Jastis Party, Malekula) – Third Deputy Speaker
• Camillo Ati (Iauko Group, Santo Rural) – Fourth Deputy Speaker

Coalition Government Formation

The newly formed government is a coalition of five political parties, including,

• Leaders Party
• Vanua’aku Party
• Graon Mo Jastis Party
• Reunification Movement for Change
• Iauko Group
• These parties collectively govern the Parliament and aim to provide stable leadership under Prime Minister Jotham Napat.