Nabanga Groups

02/04/2024

26/03/2024

A debate on the ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ votes to the proposed Constitutional amendments will be held at the Convention Centre from 11am to 1pm today.

This debate marks the first one since the launching of the referendum campaign and the awareness efforts.

According to information given to the Daily Post, the ‘Yes’ Team will include Ralph Regenvanu, the Minister of Climate Change, Anatole Hymak, the Minister of Education and Training, Anthea Aru, a Councillor from the Port Vila City Council, and Benjamin Shing, the First Political Advisor to the Minister of Internal Affairs.

The ‘No’ team comprises former Member of Parliament (MP) who is also the chairman of the ‘No’ Group, Joshua Kalsakau, along with former MPs Iaris Naunun and Kalo Seule, as well as Chief Jimmy Nampas.

The public is welcome to attend the Convention Centre to listen to the debate, gain information, and ask questions.

The debate will also be livestreamed on the 2024 Referendum Facebook.

In related updates, the Public Service Commission's office, represented by Acting Secretary Jonathan Iavere, has issued a circular to all public servants, mandating their attendance at today's Referendum awareness session organised by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The circular reads, “The referendum is a crucial event that will shape the future of our nation. It is essential that all public servants are well-informed about its significance and implications.

“Your attendance at the awareness session is vital to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the referendum and its potential impact on our society.

“Your participation in this event is not only mandatory but, also essential for the success of our democracy.”

On Monday of this week, Minister of Internal Affairs Johnny Koanapo launched the referendum awareness campaign on Paama Island.

-By Glenda Willie.

A debate on the ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ votes to the proposed Constitutional amendments will be held at the Convention Centre from 11am to 1pm today.

25/03/2024

🔥HOT DEBATE, confirmed list blong ol Member blong YES mo NO.

Pablik i welkam blong joinem iven ia long konvensen senta o laef lo fesbuk.

Venue : Convention Centre
Time : 11:00am till 13:00pm

Wajem live long 2024 Referendum Facebook pej.

17/03/2024

Vois Blong Yumi emi presentem - bigfala series blo debate we nation ya i ever look: Joshua Tafura Kalsakau mo team Vote No vs Minister Johnny Raso Koanapo mo team Vote Yes.

VENUE : CONVENTION CENTRE
TOPIC: 17a mo 17b emi blo good blo Vanuatu ?

Kam wetem frens e g*t bigfala space Air-conditioning mo open mic Discussion or Question.

14/03/2024

Hello Ol Gudfala Citizen Blo Port-Vila City, Notis stap Go Out Lo Everiwan Bambai E G*t Wan Program Lo 1::00pm Ofisiel Awareness Blo REFERENDUM.
Kam wetem frens sitaon Arround mo Lisen long Storian Blong Referendum.

12/03/2024

11/03/2024

10/03/2024

02/03/2024

Public I welkam blo ko harem panel discussion lo tomorrow Sunday 3, March lo Convention Centre.

02/03/2024

The proposed amendments to Articles 17A and 17B aim to address the political instability, but, will not put a complete stop to it.

Article 17B mandates that certain Members of Parliament (MPs) must be affiliated with a political party throughout their parliamentary term. This includes independent members, sole representatives of a party, and those representing custom movements.

They must tell the Speaker of Parliament which party they belong to within three months of the election and after the first Parliament session. If they fail to do so, their seat can be declared vacant. If any of these MPs stop being part of their party, the party president must notify the Speaker within 14 days. Then, within seven days, the Speaker must declare that MP's seat is vacant.

Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Edward Kaltamat explained that while they regulate individual MP’s affiliations, the amendment does not directly impact political parties. For example, if MPs from a particular political party in a coalition government disagree with the decisions of the Prime Minister (PM), they can switch sides as a party or even move a motion of no confidence.

Therefore, political instability might remain if this scenario occurred.

Chairman Kaltamat said it is not an absolute answer to the political crises, but, it is one of the various ways to address it, given the country's political environment experienced by everyone.

Many MPs also agreed that while the proposed changes will not put a full stop to the ongoing instability, they are a step forward to addressing it. They recognise the importance of starting somewhere, indicating that these amendments could be a starting point in addressing political instability.

-By Glenda Willie

The proposed amendments to Articles 17A and 17B aim to address the political instability, but, will not put a complete stop to it.

02/03/2024

Constitutional Referendum

Dear Editor,

Please allow me space in your paper to briefly discuss my views on this planned referendum. It seems to me that without knowing all the reasons for political instability and the implications of YES votes, the public in Vanuatu will ruin their own democratic rights and freedoms through this referendum.

The public is being sold a version of reality by their Members of Parliament (MPs). Essentially, the MPs are saying as follows that for 44 years:

They could not master political stability because the Constitution did not stop MPs from crossing the floor and joining another party. So, they want the Constitution to now punish anyone who moves to another party. One needs to ask if the MPs themselves know and are willing to identify and admit the real causes of political instability. Have they asked themselves the WHY question about this frogging that some of them like doing. One should ask WHY, and when you get your first answer, you again ask WHY. You do that until you no longer can get another answer to your WHY question. Then see if that final answer you have points to a serious lack in the constitution. I would not think so.

For generation, democracies around the world saw value in this ability to move parties, especially when used for the wise and right reasons. Those seeking a YES vote want to remove that freedom from all of us. They do not think that future generations should be allowed to move parties. The disregard for the hopes and aspirations of others by this legislature is such a problem. How can they stoop so low?

The actions of independent candidates are among the biggest reasons why there is no political stability. They imply that independents are a problem and unless they are required to join a political party, they pose great risk to political stability. Is this so? Do the independents seek no confidence votes just by themselves. Do they alone lack any political integrity in their practices?

Democracies the world over have a place for independents.

Already we are seeing a big push by politicians and many on social media for YES votes. What people need to know is that by voting YES, you are agreeing to no longer allow MPs the ability to leave a party that does not stand for things that they and good minded electorate value. You are saying that no future MP should have the right to move to another party, even if for a good course. If the electorate in a constituency wants their MP to move, they must be availed that option. MPs themselves have been moving for all the wrong reasons, so they think they should stop this practice. What a blunder!

In terms of independents, you are saying that they must not have the right to express their political association. They must join parties that they did not want to join in the first place before election. If they did like those parties, why become an independent candidate? In having to join an established party, you are sacrificing the political aspirations of the electorate who initially voted the independent. It is just like saying we no longer allow persons to content votes as independents. This is not democratic.

What is disheartening also is that women and girls had no say in the politics of the 44 years as leaders. They have been voters, but not lead in parliament. Just because some men cannot use common sense and lead properly, they want to find a scapegoat in the constitution. This is so unfortunate. Voting YES means you are saying women should never have the opportunity in parliament and cross the floor if they so wisely choose. You also are saying that women should never be independents because they cannot represent their own agendas. So, they must join existing parties. These are the parties that have caused the problems we have seen for 44 years. That is just disgraceful.

In the end, the referendum only benefits the current political parties and men only. So, I will vote NO, not because I like instability, but because I think there are still better leaders out there, including future leaders yet to be born. We should give them the right to a free and truly democratic Republic of Vanuatu, with a well-run parliament. All we need is better MPs, not a changed constitution for the reasons noted above, and restriction of democratic rights of the future generations.

So vote NO.

Ruben Bakeo Markward

https://www.dailypost.vu/news/constitutional-referendum/article_f11fe2d3-c8df-559c-851e-24b90541fcb3.html

01/03/2024

If the referendum passes, the amendments will not immediately come into effect.

Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Edward Kaltamat, made this clear.

Mr. Kaltamat explained that political parties must adjust their party constitutions to accommodate these changes.

Article 17A, deals with what happens when a Member of Parliament (MP) resigns or is removed for not supporting their party. The primary goal of Article 17A is to ensure MPs remain affiliated with their parties for the entire parliamentary term.

If an MP leaves their party, the party leader must inform the Speaker of Parliament within 14 days.

Subsequently, the Speaker must declare the MP’s seat vacant within seven days of being notified.

Article 17B addresses MPs who are independent or only one representing a political party or represent a custom movement.

These MPs must declare their party affiliation within three months of being elected or after the first parliamentary session. Failure to do so results in their seat being declared vacant.

Similarly, if an MP ceases to be affiliated with a party, the party leader must inform the Speaker within 14 days, and the Speaker must declare the seat vacant within seven days.

Regarding Article 17A, Kaltamat stressed that parties cannot simply terminate members without a provision in their constitution.

There must be a process in place for such decisions. Furthermore, individuals switching sides cannot be automatically terminated; they must be allowed to justify their actions.

According to the chairman, after the referendum, political parties will be required to submit their revised constitutions.

These revisions must include provisions for managing members who switch allegiance or resign. Kaltamat explained that certain considerations, such as the number of supporters required to form a party, will be determined by the Electoral Commission.

He added that the Commission will take into account that some parties have support concentrated in specific constituencies, while others have supporters in all six provinces.

Concerning Article 17B, Kaltamat noted that MPs, including independent candidates, will have enough time to choose their affiliation. They can engage with their voters to explain their decision, a process that will take three months.

-By Glenda Willie (www.dailypost.vu)

If the referendum passes, the amendments will not immediately come into effect.

01/03/2024

Some citizens are taking their concerns regarding the upcoming National Referendum to social media and are actively advocating for a “No” vote.

The Vanuatu Daily Post reached out to a former Member of Parliament (MP) for Efate Rural Constituency, Joshua Kalsakau, who explained his reasons for opposing the referendum.

Kalsakau urged the authorities to provide funding, suggesting a minimum of VT20 million, for the “No” campaign. He stressed the necessity for people to understand both sides of the referendum and make informed choices, without being unduly influenced by the government to vote “Yes.”

“In general, more than 60% to 70% of the people eligible to cast their vote are not fully informed or aware of what this referendum is all about. The public must be fully informed about the ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ reasons,” Kalsakau pointed out.

He claimed that the Electoral Commission is conducting this referendum campaign with “undue influence”.

“Their statements published or aired on the radio are none other than only influencing people to vote ‘Yes’. They even go to the extent of informing or instructing their workmates to vote for ‘Yes’, including the people,” said Kalsakau.

“People must be given the correct statement so that they can choose what they think is best for our country.

“The purpose of the Referendum is to get the views and stance of the public because their views represent the true answer (Yes or No) from the people. That is the only way in which the primary objective of going through the referendum will be achieved.”

Mr. Kalsakau believes “the core objective of the proposed amendment is primarily to protect the interests of political parties that will have more representation in parliament but do not serve the people’s interest at large”.

“The proposed amendment is undemocratic because it no longer promotes the element of proportional representations, to ensure that our governance system produces a more balanced and mixed representation of political parties as reflected by the votes cast by the people,” he added.

“With these proposed amendments tooled by this referendum, we are basically, only promoting dictatorship, power hunger leaders, and corrupt politicians.”

The former MP affirmed that Vanuatu is not going to achieve political instability with these proposed amendments.

Questioning the necessity of amending Article 17(1), Kalsakau advocated for addressing issues through elections by electing representatives who genuinely serve the interests of the people and the nation.

He argued for a Judicial Review, citing an alleged breach of Chapter 2, Article 5(1)(i) of the Constitution, and raised concerns about the lack of provisions to protect individual or independent MPs who may join larger political parties, potentially jeopardising their interests and constitutional rights.

However, Edward Kaltamat, the Chairman of the Electoral Commission, made it clear that the Electoral Office and the Commission remain impartial when it comes to supporting the referendum.

He stated that all materials and information related to the referendum are neutral. They are giving the opportunity to every eligible citizen to make their own choices.

Kaltamat confirmed that a Regulation Order being developed by the Office of the Attorney General and the Electoral Commission does not specifically address those who try to influence others’ votes for a particular outcome.

He noted that if there is a campaign advocating for a “yes” vote, as the government is doing, those against the referendum also have the right to run a “no” campaign.

He also highlighted that Article 5(1)(i) is affected by the referendum. This article aims to prevent MPs from changing affiliations or switching parties.

-By Glenda Willie (www.dailypost.vu)

Some citizens are taking their concerns regarding the upcoming National Referendum to social media and are actively advocating for a “No” vote.

29/02/2024

28/02/2024

28/02/2024

The Referendum Act, CAP 297 of 2006, has never been implemented since its development.

In 2023, Parliament introduced proposed amendments to the Constitution, including Article 17 and the insertion of Articles 17A and 17B, requiring a national referendum as per Article 86 of the Constitution. According to the article 86 of the Constitution, a national referendum is required if a constitutional amendment is passed by the Parliament on the status of Bislama, English and French, the electoral system, or the parliamentary system.

According to the Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Edward Kaltamat, the electoral system is affected in this case.

However, the existing Referendum Act lacks specific regulations to guide the conduct of such a vote. Therefore, the Vanuatu Electoral Office (VEO), along with the Electoral Commission and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) has collaborated to draft a Regulation Order.

The Regulation Order, still in its draft stage, addresses various important aspects of the referendum process, the Chairman explained. These include voter registration procedures, the duration of the campaign period, vote counting procedures, result verification, and declaration protocols.

Additionally, the Regulation Order outlines the criteria and eligibility for referendum observers and establishes the process for counting votes based on a simple majority.

Chairman Kaltamat elaborated on another significant aspect covered by the Regulation Order: the handling of void votes. In the case of regular elections, torn ballot papers with candidate photos are considered void. However, for the referendum, only two ballot papers will be used: green for “yes” votes and red for “no” votes. The Regulation Order specifies guidelines for validating and voiding such votes.

There are also provisions made in exceptional cases for individuals unable to vote at their designated polling station on referendum polling day. Chairman Kaltamat illustrated this with an example of someone from Tanna unable to return due to accompanying a sick relative to Vila.

In such cases, the Regulation Order allows these individuals to vote elsewhere in Port Vila, ensuring their voting rights are upheld. He explained that this particular person from Tanna must be a registered voter and electoral officers would be able to confirm this information by scanning his ID card.

However, these exceptional provisions will only apply in rare circumstances to prevent eligible citizens from being deprived of their voting rights.

As the Regulation Order undergoes final drafting by the OAG, the Electoral Commission awaits its official approval to guide the referendum process effectively.

-By Glenda Shing

The Referendum Act, CAP 297 of 2006, has never been implemented since its development.

23/02/2024

23/02/2024

Dekleresen long ol nems blo ol kwalifaed kandidets we bae oli kontes long Ambrym Palimentri by-eleksen long 14th March 2024

23/02/2024

In the public opinion assembling conducted by the Vanuatu Daily Post this week on communication on the upcoming National Referendum, citizens expressed major concerns about the need for more clear explanations.

The interviews, conducted yesterday at Seafront, yielded varied opinions from seven individuals, shedding light on the prevailing confusion surrounding the referendum.

Joe Pupu, a concerned citizen from Port Vila, is frustrated by the lack of clarity surrounding the upcoming referendum. He admitted he doesn't fully understand what a referendum is and believes the government should provide clearer explanations. Pupu emphasises the importance of transparency in such processes to ensure every citizen can make informed decisions.

Mark Toa, another resident of Port Vila, shared Pupu's concerns. He is also confused about the referendum and urges the government to offer more detailed explanations. Toa believes that without a clear understanding, citizens cannot actively participate in the democratic process, which undermines its credibility.

John Henly, who just arrived on a vessel yesterday, voiced his concern about the lack of information dissemination regarding the national referendum. He argued that discussions about the referendum seem to be limited to urban centers like Port Vila, leaving people in remote areas uninformed. Henly emphasised that the referendum should be accessible to all citizens, regardless of their location, and calls for a concerted effort to spread awareness nationwide.

Mary Avilu supported Henly's viewpoint, stressing that the referendum concerns the entire nation, not just the capital city. She emphasised the need for comprehensive awareness campaigns to reach citizens in remote areas and ensure their participation in the democratic process. Avilu urged the government to prioritise inclusive communication strategies to bridge the information gap.

David Joy, a concerned citizen from the West Coast of Santo, raises the issue of the timing of the referendum. He believes that May 29 is too soon and that there hasn't been enough time for citizens, especially those in remote areas, to fully grasp its concept and significance. Joy suggested that the government should organise workshops in provinces and provide educational resources to facilitate a better understanding among the general public.

Rachel Mira echoed David's concerns, emphasising the need for extensive awareness campaigns beyond urban centers. She argued that rushing the referendum without ensuring widespread understanding could undermine its legitimacy. Mira urged the government to allocate resources for outreach programs and educational initiatives to ensure that every citizen comprehends the implications of their vote.

Michael Tamata, a thoughtful citizen, commented on the importance of informed decision-making in democratic processes.

He acknowledged the value of referendums but stressed that without a clear understanding of what is being voted on, the legitimacy of the entire process is called into question. Tamata urged the government to prioritise educational efforts to ensure that citizens fully grasp the significance of the referendum before casting their votes. He believes that an informed electorate is essential for upholding the principles of democracy.

- By Nicholas Mwai (www.dailypost.vu)

In the public opinion assembling conducted by the Vanuatu Daily Post this week on communication on the upcoming National Referendum, citizens expressed major concerns about the need for more clear

23/02/2024

Members of Parliament (MPs) are expected to receive financial support of up to VT1 million each to strengthen and support the National Referendum 'Yes' campaign.

This was confirmed by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Johnny Koanapo yesterday, adding that this fund is part of the VT350 million appropriated by Parliament for referendum awareness efforts.

Koanapo explained that MPs must submit a detailed work plan outlining their proposed strategies for conducting the awareness campaign for the 'Yes' vote.

The plan should present how the funds will be utilised, such as covering transportation expenses or organising community g*therings to spread information about the significance of the referendum.

Recognising the diverse needs of different constituencies, Koanapo appealed to the MPs to be realistic when budgeting within the submitted work plans. While some areas may require the full VT1 million allocation, others might suffice with lesser amounts, based on their outlined strategies.

The Internal Affairs Minister confirmed efforts will be made to ensure all the people, with emphasis on reaching remote and sizable constituencies like SANMA and MALAMPA Provinces. Koanapo pointed out that MPs play an important role in supporting these particular government-led initiatives, filling gaps, and extending the campaign's reach to areas beyond official efforts.

Koanapo explained that each MP will have their work plan to carry out in their constituencies. However, the government also disseminates information through the National Coordinating team spearheaded by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and invites MPs to join when they visit the MPs' constituencies.

The MPs, according to their work plan can help disseminate information to areas the government might miss.

Minister Koanapo stressed that they want as much as possible to go to all areas, the constituencies in particular, to use the fund to help spread the message to the people.

The proposed amendments were passed by the parliament and the MPs take full ownership of the process to disseminate information.

He said MPs will go out to their constituencies to explain why the parliament has made this decision. MPs will also be in a better position to explain the amendments and the referendum.

Koanapo also mentioned that before the closing of the First Extraordinary Session this week, several presidents of political parties have pledged their support and called on their electorates to vote ‘yes’.

The minister added that they are aware that some people are campaigning against these plans. He questioned who they represent and suggested they declare their interests.

He reiterated that these people going for the ‘No’ campaign have the right to do so, but, they need clarify who they speak for.

The MPs have already agreed in Parliament that this change to the Constitution will stop MPs from changing sides easily. The minister said if anyone disagrees with the ‘Yes’ campaign, this indicates that they are okay with unstable governments and tolerate instability.

He called on those campaigning against the referendum to speak up when the awareness teams are going around to explain the referendum.

Koanapo made it clear that this change will not affect citizens' fundamental rights, as stipulated in Article 5 of the Constitution, only MPs' actions in Articles 17A and 17B of the Constitution

-By Glenda Willie (www.dailypost.vu)

Members of Parliament (MPs) are expected to receive financial support of up to VT1 million each to strengthen and support the National Referendum 'Yes' campaign.

22/02/2024

22/02/2024

2024 Nasonal Referandom Balot pepa. Long 29 May, taem vota i ko insaed long Poling Stesen, Poling Klak bae i givim 2 set blo balot pepa ia nao. I g*t grup blo 17A (Green mo Red) mo grup blo 17B (Green mo Red). Jusum wan nomo lo 17A mo wan nomo lo 17B. Foldem tugeta mo putum insaed 1 balot envelop nomo. Silim gud mo dropem insaed lo balot box.

Rimemba: Green kala hemi sapos yu Vot Yes blo sapotem jenis we i stap, mo Red kala hemi sapos yu Vot No mo yu no sapotem jenis lo Konstitusen!