VANUATU DISAPPOINTED OVER MSG APPOINTMENT

The Government of Vanuatu has expressed disappointment over the appointment of the new Director-General of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), saying the proper process was not followed.

Monday this week, Office of the Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, who is the current MSG Chairman, announced the appointment of Fijian diplomat, Amena Yauvoli, as the new MSG Director General.

While Mr. Yauvoli has reportedly signed his employment contract, the Vanuatu Government believes, the MSG Constitution may have been breached.

The Vanuatu Daily post reports, in a letter sent to the MSG Chair, Prime Minister Sogavare last yesterday, the Vanuatu Government said that Article 15 of the MSG Constitution was clear that the Director-General shall be appointed by the Leaders’ Summit.

The same letter informed Mr. Sogavare of Vanuatu’s nomination being Ambassador to Brussels in Europe, Roy Mickey Joy, that was endorsed by the Vanuatu Council of Ministers.

While confusion reigns in the MSG, it remains to be seen how Melanesian solidarity, if such still exists, will stand against the challenges it faces.