Prime Minister's Job Still Up For Grabs in General Election in the Tropical Islands of Vanuatu

2008-09-05 08:58:50 - With the votes still being counted, the holder of the Prime Minister's job is uncertain, as no single party has a majority.
Vanuatu's Prime Minister's job is still up for grabs, as the struggle for the new guard begins.Vanuatu, one of the Lesser Developed nations of the South Pacific, general elections have not quite come fully of age. Voting day is a public holiday, but with the ancient tradition of doing things the chief's way, many villagers felt pressured to cast their

votes as the chief tells them. Voters rolled up with legal voting cards, only to be turned away. Some reacted in disappointment and anger. Computerized elections are a long way off in the 83 tropical islands of Vanuatu. The battle for leadership begins as counting of votes is still progressing. Talks have already begun between potential partners, to form the new government. No political party appears to have a complete majority. Custom pubs, the Nakamals, where men are served the local drink, kava, becomes the unauthorized boxing rings of the power-brokers. Quite a few unofficial versions of the coalition have already been proposed.Some of the old guard have not been returned to the halls of government. Jimmy Willie said 'I am throwing a party to celebrate the end of 25 years in politics.' Many may join Willie's celebration.Several nations in the South Pacific have suffered coups in recent years, but Vanuatu is the most stable nation. This will remain the case, in spite of the fact that the general elections will necessitate the forming of a coalition. As in all politics there are those who deem it necessary to take on the role of the mercenary. The charismatic politician who says or does anything if the price is right. Among the newcomers there are also single-minded missionaries, hell-bent on converting everyone to their beliefs. They usually become blinded by the brightness of their own vision and will be seen in the halls of power, hiding behind a pair of designer sunglasses. Other politicians will become managers, feeling it is their duty to plan, execute and bring to a close various projects, in spite of island time. They believe nothing will get done without their effort. There are some in the old guard who act as if they are a monarch. Maybe it is because of their service, or it may simply be the ‘wan-tok-system' (who you are related to).They feel they are the embodiment of supreme power and their lofty position is their kingly right.Vanuatu is fortunate to have a strong team of alchemists, behind its political scene. If confusion arises in the coming weeks, as politicians manipulate, jostle and generally power-broke for positions, the DGs will stand firm. They are not voted for and are seen as shadowy figures in the background, frequently flanking the voted-in minister. They are the real power behind the throne. Their direction and manoeuverings are felt at every level. They are the stability of every nation. They stay in the middle ground, as no matter which politician suffers defeat or victory, the DGs press on.

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