News and Press Releases

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Vanuatu Hamlison Bulu has warned all politicians to halt using all public assets in their capacity as leaders in the upcoming Provincial Election.

Ombudsman Staff
Ombudsman Hamlison Bulu and Hon Prime Minister Bob Loughman Weibur in one of their meetings.

Mr Bulu reiterated that as Ombudsman, his role is to ensure that all leaders must comply with the law in everything they are doing.

In a press conference held on Wednesday 28th of April 2021, Ombudsman confirmed that his Office has been made aware of the use of Government vehicles in the campaigns for the provincial elections in four provinces, Malamapa, Penama, Shefa and Tafea.

He urged all citizens including the leaders to understand the role of a government as distinct from that of a political party.

He explained that a political party’s aim is to contest an election, reach the Parliament or Provincial Council and become the government. Leaders of political parties in Government must not use Government facilities such as Government vehicles for political activities. The Government is a totally separate entity from a political party.

He said that the Government “G” plated vehicles are meant to be used for government functions but not for a political party interests and activities in such times.

Mr Bulu kindly asked all leaders of political parties to ensure that all their people cease to use the vehicles in the political activities leading up to the Provincial Elections.

Mr Bulu continued that he has no ears or eyes in distant places and every remote island in Vanuatu. However, it is the duty of leaders to follow the law and it is also the duty of all good citizens to report misuse of Government “G” plated vehicles or other breaches of the law to the Ombudsman or another law enforcement agency occurring during this period leading up to the Provincial Elections.

He reminds all the citizens that the Ombudsman is a friend - not an enemy, and he will always be around to assist leaders to do the right thing by law and as a consequence citizens and all people living in Vanuatu are treated fairly and justice is the outcome of every decision and action of a leader.