The interim coalition government, led by caretaker Prime Minister (PM) and Member of Parliament (MP-elect) for Pentecost constituency Charlot Salwai, along with his political partners, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) yesterday afternoon.
The agreement aims to form the next government and elect both the PM and Speaker of Parliament during the first sitting of the 14th Legislature.
The coalition has solidified its foundation, with key political figures uniting to formalise their partnership. The presence of prominent leaders—including Jotham Napat of the Leaders Party of Vanuatu (LPV), Johnny Koanapo of Vanua’aku Pati (VP), Salwai of the Reunification Movement for Change (RMC), Ralph Regenvanu of Graon mo Jastis Pati (GJP), and Marc Ati of the Iauko Group (IG)—at the signing ceremony is a strong signal of commitment to this coalition. Although initial meetings witnessed some absences, the final signing demonstrates a unified front.
The real test will be how these parties manage their relationships and whether they can hold together through the challenges of governance. With such a diverse set of political backgrounds—LPV, VP, GJP, RMC, and IG—there could be differences in policy priorities.
During the last legislature, the IG President supported a motion of no confidence that removed caretaker PM Salwai, which led to the dissolution of Parliament. However, IG Secretary General (SG) Xavier Iaris Iauko remained loyal to the coalition as caretaker Minister of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU).
Now, with IG President Marc Ati joining the coalition and signing the MoA, the group demonstrates a notable shift in support. The agreement signals a strengthening of the coalition’s ranks as it looks toward the parliamentary vote.
The coalition claims the support of over 30 MPs-elect, putting them in a strong position to secure a majority for electing the Speaker of Parliament and the PM. A simple majority requires 26+1 votes, so even with some variability in the final results, the coalition appears poised for success—provided unity is maintained during the voting process.
However, uncertainty lingers as the Vanuatu Electoral Commission (VEC) finalises the official results. If the coalition’s numbers drop below 30 or if unexpected shifts in allegiance occur, this could change the dynamics. Conversely, a confirmed majority would solidify the coalition’s position and bolster its ability to implement its agenda effectively.
The specific allocation of positions for Speaker, PM, and ministerial appointments remains undecided. Leaders have refrained from disclosing details, likely to prevent tensions before the official sitting. This strategic silence allows the coalition time to finalise internal agreements and avoid public disagreements over appointments.
Meanwhile, political manoeuvring continues in the background. Parties such as the Rural Development Party (RDP), Union of Moderate Parties (UMP), Vanuatu National Development Party (VNDP), and Laverwo Party (LP) remain active, lobbying for inclusion in the coalition.