President Nikenike Vurobaravu has called on traditional leaders to move away from certain customary practices that do not align with Christian beliefs.
Yesterday’s Chiefs Day in Port Vila was a significant ceremony, as it also marked the opening of the Chiefs Nakamal building, which was burned down on January 30, 2023.
The event brought together all 83 island chiefs, the President, the Prime Minister (PM) and state ministers, diplomatic representatives, other high-ranking officials within the Vanuatu Government, and the public.
President Vurobaravu emphasized the importance of preserving traditional governance while ensuring it remains in harmony with Christian values.
“We, as chiefs, have an important responsibility to lead our communities and take permanent decisions to let go of some customs that do not follow Christian beliefs,” he said.
He reaffirmed the role of the nakamal as a cornerstone of traditional leadership, where chiefs unite communities and resolve disputes. However, he stressed that not all traditional practices should be maintained if they conflict with Christian principles.
Vurobaravu also urged chiefs to continue guiding their people in upholding respect, cooperation, and justice within their communities. The nakamal system, he said, differs from foreign governance models, as it ensures fair resolutions rather than favoring those with wealth.
“As we move forward, our communities must continue to uphold the nakamal system, ensuring it aligns with our national motto, ‘Long God Yumi Stanap’,” he added.
President of the Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs, Paul Robert Ravun, also addressed the gathering, acknowledging the government’s role in supporting the country’s traditional leaders.
“I would like to acknowledge the Vanuatu Government for looking after their father—the chiefs—as the fathers of the nation and for recognizing this event as the first annual celebration among all national events,” he said.
He commended the government for its commitment to traditional leadership, stating that the opening of the new nakamal symbolized a new journey and strengthened cooperation between the chiefs and the government.
“Our different Nasara have formed the Government of the Republic of Vanuatu, and this time, your father will stand with you in development. We will walk together,” he said.
“The Constitution states that issues concerning the nakamal should be handled by the chiefs. For 44 years, our voices may not have been in order, but today, we seek to restore order to the governance we lead,” he said.
He further urged the government to consult chiefs on matters related to custom before passing laws in Parliament.
“This nakamal is open for discussions, not just for me, but for all our chiefs and the government,” he said.
PM Jotham Napat assured the chiefs that his government was committed to working alongside them.
“I come today as Prime Minister, and I have heard your words. Our government is ready to come into the nasara to sit with you. We will not make laws without the presence of our chiefs,” he said.
He highlighted the significance of the new nakamal, emphasizing that chiefs have always been at the foundation of governance in Vanuatu.
“The opening of our nakamal is very significant. It maintains our custom and culture, and even before a government was formed, the chiefs were already there,” he said.
Napat also announced that the government had allocated VT35 million for the reconstruction of the Chiefs Nakamal, with VT14 million remaining for further development.
“The government is committed to supporting Malvatumauri and all chiefs throughout Vanuatu,” he assured.
Chiefs Day is an annual event that honors the role of traditional leaders in maintaining peace and unity across Vanuatu.
Source; Vanuatu Daily Post
