Pacific Institute of Public Policy

24 September, 2015

By-elections, dynasty politics and saving costs

As Port Vila gears up for a by-election following the death of Edward Natapei, Kiery Manassah reflects on an increasingly common trend of dynasty politics in Vanuatu where leadership is often passed on to a next of kin, arguing the pattern could snuffle life out of democracy.

Vanuatu’s political history could be changed forever

3 September, 2015

Kiery Manassah

Vanuatu’s political history could be changed forever

Starting next week, Justice Sey will preside over arguably the biggest corruption case ever in Vanuatu, involving 16 parliamentarians from the government side. Kiery Manassah considers the possible ways in which the scenario could unfold.

The balancing act of governance in Melanesia

4 June, 2014

Kiery Manassah

The balancing act of governance in Melanesia

There is a need to move beyond band-aid solutions for governance that only lead to greater instability and inconsistency in the policy-making processes, to developing strong institutions with visionary leadership at the helm, writes Kiery Manassah.

20 May, 2014

Kiery Manassah

Arrests follow Honiara riot

Frustration over flood relief boils over.

16 May, 2014

Kiery Manassah

New Vanuatu PM still faces uncertainty

Natuman’s election still needs time to settle, with foreign policy issues set to test government solidarity. Already there is talk of a reshuffle as MPs wait for a High Court decision that could affect Natuman’s hold as PM, writes Kiery Manassah.

7 May, 2014

Kiery Manassah

Fiji edges closer to election

Excitement is building among Fijian voters towards election on September 17, with Australia and New Zealand having shifted their policies towards positive engagement with the announcement of the election date, writes Kiery Manassah.