Vanuatu’s Opposition bloc has filed a court case disputing President Nikenike Vurobaravu’s decision to dissolve Parliament amid a pending no-confidence motion.
Former Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau accused the President of acting beyond his constitutional powers to protect his position. “This decision reflects a clear conflict of interest,” Kalsakau said.
The Supreme Court has directed the Opposition to file submissions, with a ruling expected soon. Kalsakau noted the case’s unprecedented nature: “The court must determine if the President can act unilaterally when his own position is under scrutiny.”
The dissolution, based on the Council of Ministers’ advice, preempted a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Charlot Salwai. Opposition Leader Gracia Shadrack had rallied key parties to support the motion.
Principal Electoral Officer Guilain Malessas warned of financial and logistical hurdles for a snap election, estimated to cost VT80-90 million.
The political turmoil adds to Vanuatu’s instability, with the nation set to hold its fifth election in three years.
