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References OHGE\6HUJH9RKRUZDVVWUHQJWKHQHG in the reshuffle with the allocation of ISN, Island Sun News. Daily. Honiara. two additional ministerial portfolios. KWWS ZZZLVODQGVXQFRPVE In a move most likely aimed at opm, Office of the Prime Minister. 2010. protecting his position as Speaker, 7KH1DWLRQDO&RDOLWLRQIRU5HIRUPDQG Korman declared late November that Advancement (ncra) Government Policy the prime minister had lost his seat Statement. Honiara. because he had not obtained permis- Roughan, Paul. 2010. Elekson for Wadia? sion to be absent from Parliament. &RQWHVWDQG&RQIOLFWLQ6,2010 National 1DWDSHLKDGOHIW9DQXDWXLQ1RYHP- Elections. Macmillan Brown Lunchtime ber to attend an overseas meeting, Seminar, 299 July. which coincided with the last session sibc, Solomon Islands Broadcasting of Parliament. Natapei protested that &RUSRUDWLRQ'DLO\,QWHUQHWQHZVVHUYLFH he had let the Speaker know and, on +RQLDUDKWWS ZZZVLEFRQOLQHFRP his return, had obtained a Supreme SSN, Solomon Star News. Daily. Honiara. &RXUWUXOLQJWKDWWKH6SHDNHUªVGHFL- 2QOLQHDWKWWS VRORPRQVWDUQHZVFRP sion was unconstitutional (VDP, 7 Dec 2009). However, Natapei found that sto, Solomon Times Online. Daily Internet news service, Honiara. he was also facing a no-confidence KWWS ZZZVRORPRQWLPHVFRP motion tabled by Ham Lini, the new leader of the Opposition. The govern ment had hoped to remove the Speaker at the same time as Parlia- ment voted on the motion of no Vanuatu confidence, which was easily defeated, As 2010 got underway, the issue of the but Korman was able to manipulate status of the Speaker of Parliament, standing orders to avoid a vote on his 0D[LPH&DUORW.RUPDQKHOGRYHU own position. He remained as Speaker from last year, remained to be dealt until January 2010, when the govern- with. In late November 2009, the ment called an extraordinary session 9DQXD©DNX3DWL vp) prime minister, of Parliament with the intention of Edward Natapei, had removed two removing him. However, rather than parties from the governing coalition— being voted out, he resigned. In the the National United Party (nup) led election that followed, the govern- E\+DP/LQLDQGWKH9DQXDWX5HSXE- ment’s nominee for Speaker, Lugan- lican Party (vrp) led by Korman. ville mp George Wells (nup), defeated Natapei replaced them with the Alli- Korman, the Opposition’s nominee, in ance Group and its fifteen associated a secret ballot by thirty-two votes to members of Parliament, led by Sato nineteen (VDP, 30 Jan 2010). Kilman from the island of Malakula, Resolution of the issue of the leader of the People’s Progressive Speaker concluded the process of Party (ppp), who was made deputy restructuring the government coali- prime minister (VDP, 20 Nov 2009). tion that had begun toward the end of The position of the Union of Moder- November 2009, but, as the motion of ate Parties (ump) within the coalition, no confidence indicated, the political 512 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011) situation was not settled. At the time time, however, the old vp stalwarts of the November reshuffle, Natapei have gradually united around Natapei, also used the opportunity to remove leaving Iauko frustrated and vengeful. renegade Tanna mp Harry Iauko Indeed, Natapei and Iauko no longer (vp), who held the position of min- have the close political relationship ister of lands (VDP, 18 Nov 2009). they once had. Iauko had been accused of corruption Iauko’s ambition finally led him to over land dealings and suspended run for Parliament in the 2008 elec- DVDPHPEHURIWKH9DQXD©DNX3DWL tion when he succeeded in securing since 2008 when he decided to sup- the highest number of votes of any port a no-confidence motion against candidate on Tanna, which saw the Natapei. The vote for the new Speaker 9DQXD©DNX3DWLJDLQIRXURIWKHVHYHQ was significant, as it indicated that seats in the constituency. Following six members of Parliament from the this result, Iauko clearly expected a government had joined the Opposition ministerial portfolio in the new vp-led and voted for Korman. The Natapei- coalition government, which also led government had a total of thirty- included nup with Ham Lini as deputy nine members, compared to thirteen prime minister. However, this did in the Opposition. It emerged that the not happen. As usual, the new prime six government members who voted minister, Edward Natapei, faced the for the Opposition nominee were led difficult task of balancing the thirteen by mp Harry Iauko and included two available portfolios among coalition other vp members plus three inde- SDUWQHUVDQGUHJLRQVLVODQGVZLWKLQ pendents (Independent, 30 Jan–5 Feb the country. Iauko was not happy to 2010). have been denied a portfolio and was 7KH9DQXD©DNX3DWLªVSUREOHPZLWK even more incensed ten days later Harry Iauko goes back over a decade when he was again ignored in another to when he became an active mem- UHVKXIIOHZKLFKEURXJKW6HUJH9RKRU ber of the party on his home island and his ump members into the coali- of Tanna. He identified himself with tion in order to avoid defeat in a vote those who called for the main parties of no confidence. Iauko’s response to open opportunities for younger was to lead another vote of no confi- members—something that established dence, which also failed. party leaders were usually prepared to Finally, in June 2009, Iauko got his support in principle but found difficult chance during another reshuffle and to put into practice. Iauko and his was made minister of lands, despite supporters were instrumental in elect- the fact that he was still under sus- ing Natapei president at the vp’s 1999 SHQVLRQIURPWKH9DQXD©DNX3DWL ,SRWD&RQJUHVVRQ(UURPDQJRGHIHDW- (VDP, 16 June 2009). However, as ing Donald Kalpo kas, who was one of noted earlier, after only five months, the founding fathers and vp president. as part of the reshuffle in late Novem- This proved to be extremely divisive. ber 2009, Nata pei decided to take 7KH1DWDSHL,DXNRIDFWLRQWDUJHWHG the opportunity to remove Iauko as Kalpokas in the 2004 election, caus- minister of lands. ing him to lose his seat. Since that By this time, Iauko had clearly pol i t ical reviews melanesia 513 decided that the only way to achieve Natapei for the position of president UHFRJQLWLRQE\WKH9DQXD©DNX3DWLZDV and hoped to be able to replace the to challenge the leadership of the party entire executive with his own support- itself. During 2009 he traveled around ers. He claimed to have 300 subcom- the country seeking support among vp mittees pledged to him, but whether members by organizing subcommit- they were registered according to tees to back him in an attempt to take party procedures with valid signatures over as party president at the next vp was in dispute (VDP, 10 Feb 2010). congress, which was scheduled for One week before the vp congress, 2009. According to the vp constitu- Natapei announced that no new tion, congresses should take place subcommittees would be allowed at once a year. However, the party execu- the Tongoa congress unless they had tive, of which he was not a member, been approved at the last one in 2007. did not hold a congress in 2008 and According to vp procedures, all new postponed that of 2009 until 2010. In subcommittees had to be verified response, Iauko’s supporters organized according to specific criteria. Since a petition among vp members in an this had not been done with regard to attempt to force an early meeting in those supporting Iauko, his support January 2010, but the party executive base was effectively denied permission preferred May or June. to participate (VDP, 24 March 2010). At the same time, Natapei, as Nevertheless, Iauko moved on, char- vp president, issued warning letters tering a plane and a boat to transport to members of the party who had his subcommittees to Tongoa (VDP, 25 pledged their support for the petition, March 2010). accusing them of colluding with a Not surprisingly, the opening of suspended member to destabilize the the congress at Lumbukuti village was party and threatening them and their delayed due to disputes over which subcommittees with suspension. When subcommittees should be registered. political parties are unable to solve There was potential for violence internal disputes (a common occur- between the opposing groups, and UHQFHLQ9DQXDWX WKH\UHIHUWKHP Natapei and the executive, through to the courts. This is what happened WKHLUODZ\HULQ3RUW9LODREWDLQHG with the case of the vp, resulting in a two court injunctions in an attempt FRXUWRUGHUUHTXLULQJ9DQXD©DNX3DWL to restrain Iauko and his supporters. to hold its congress on 1 April 2010 at &RQVHTXHQWO\1DWDSHLDQGKLVH[HFX- Lumbukuti on the island of Tongoa in tive decided to move the congress to the Shepherd Group (VDP, 6, 21 22, 23 the nearby village of Panita. Iauko, Jan 2010; 6 Feb 2010). however, proceeded to organize the During the congress, the party election of a new executive at Lumbu- executive planned to introduce a num- kuti. He was elected president, Tongoa ber of changes to the vp constitution, mp Willie Ruben Abel vice president, but the biggest issue to be dealt with and Natapei (in his absence) secretary- was the election of a new executive. general—Iauko obviously believing Harry Iauko made no secret of the fact that he could continue to use Natapei that he intended to challenge Edward to divide the party to his advantage. 514 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011)
Natapei and the existing party execu- lenging Iauko’s claim. The application tive, however, continued with what asked the court to declare null and they claimed was the official congress void the meeting held by the “Iauko at Panita. The result was, and still is, faction” and the elections of Iauko as that two individuals now claim to be president and the other members of VP president, Natapei arguing that the the executive; most importantly, they Lumbukuti congress was illegal and sought a ruling that the defendants not that the results of the Panita congress be allowed to use the name Vanua‘aku reflected the legitimate wishes of the Pati (VDP, 21 May 2010). At the party (VDP, 7 April 2010; Indepen- end of the year, the court had yet to dent, 17–23 April 2010). With Iauko deliver a judgment, apparently due adamant that he represented the legiti- to the slowness of the vp executive PDWH9DQXD©DNX3DWLRIZKLFKKHZDV in submitting the application papers the true leader, the Natapei faction and following up on procedures. As a DJDLQWXUQHGWRWKH6XSUHPH&RXUWWR UHVXOWWKH9DQXD©DNX3DWL¦WKHSDUW\ resolve the impasse. of independence and the current senior Having been expelled from the member of the governing coalition— party by the Panita congress, Iauko began to appear weak and disengaged. and Abel joined the Opposition in Indeed, Opposition leader Ham Lini Parliament, Iauko becoming its deputy complained at the end of April that leader while still claiming to represent the government had still not set a date WKH9DQXD©DNX3DWL VDP, 19 May for the first ordinary sitting of Parlia- 2010). Owing to the confusion within ment, which, under standing orders, the vp, the Speaker of Parliament was required to be held by the middle required all members to declare their of May at the latest (VDP, 30 April party affiliation. This revealed that in 2010). June, government numbers remained In contrast, the other parties, both intact at 34 9DQXD©DNX3DWL 1DWDSHL within government and the Opposi- group) 9, Union of Moderate Parties tion, used the opportunity to present 8, and the Alliance Group 17 (includ- themselves as far as possible in a ing members from the People’s Pro- SRVLWLYHOLJKW9DULRXVPHHWLQJVDQG JUHVVLYH3DUW\*UHHQ&RQIHGHUDWLRQ congresses took place, often reported 1DPDQJLH$XWH9DQXDWX3URJUHVVLYH as preparation for the next election, Republican Farmer Party, Shepherds despite the fact that it was not due to $OOLDQFH9DQXDWX1DWLRQDO3DUW\3HR- be held until September 2012. In May, ple’s Action Party, and independents, the Union of Moderate Parties (ump), including Ralph Regenvanu). Oppo- the oldest francophone party, held its sition numbers totaled 18: 9DQXDWX congress on the island of Pentecost. Republican Party 8, National United 6HUJH9RKRUZKRZDVUHHOHFWHGump Party 59DQXD©DNX3DWL ,DXNRJURXS president unopposed, boasted about 2, Labour Party 2, and Nagriamel 1 the party’s achievements over the years (VDP, 1 June 2010). and promised to review government It took well over a month for land policies, which dated back to the Natapei group to submit to the independence and were causing many 6XSUHPH&RXUWGRFXPHQWDWLRQFKDO- 1L9DQXDWXWRORVHWKHLUODQG,QD pol i t ical reviews melanesia 515
IDVFLQDWLQJWXUQDURXQG9RKRUFODLPHG from what some considered a cult that ump had been the first party to movement, solely identified with its take the issue of independence to the founder Jimmy Stevens, to a more United Nations. This is impossible modern political organization. as ump was not founded until 1983, The People’s Progressive Party, when a number of francophone parties which won four seats in the 2008 that had resisted independence united election, made news during 2010 by to form a single party. Repeating a announcing its increased support on promise he had made in 2008, when various islands, and the party’s leader, ump was brought into the governing Sato Kilman, became president of the FRDOLWLRQ9RKRUSOHGJHGFRQWLQXHG Alliance Group and deputy prime loyalty to the Natapei-led government minister within the coalition (VDP, until the next election (Independent, 18 June 2010). At the party congress 29 May–4 June 2010). in September, Kilman was reelected The political group that had, in as president and pledged continued fact, first raised the issue of inde- allegiance to the Natapei-led coalition pendence before the United Nations government (VDP, 9 Sept 2010). was Nagriamel (formerly a “move- On the Opposition side, the ment” led by the infamous Jimmy National United Party held its con- Stevens from the island of Santo), gress in September and reelected Ham which became heavily involved in the Lini unopposed as president, though 1980 secessionist rebellion against it was said there were two groups the future independent Republic of lobbying for the position during 9DQXDWX1DJULDPHOVRPHKRZVXU- the lead-up to the congress. As this vived the arrest and imprisonment of is the party of Lini’s now deceased many of its leaders—Jimmy Stevens, brother, Father Walter Lini, it is hard now deceased, had been sentenced to to imagine someone other than a fourteen years for his involvement— member of the Lini family as nup and has emerged as one of the small leader. Indeed, Ham Lini was elected parties that regularly field candidates unopposed to replace his brother in in national elections and occasionally the 1999 by-election. During 2010, win seats in areas where they were from time to time he traded places strong historically. Nagriamel suc- ZLWK0D[LPH&DUORW&RUPDQ vrp) as ceeded in winning one seat in the 2008 leader of the Opposition. In Novem- election on the island of Malo. At its ber 2009, as noted earlier, Natapei congress in May, the party members had removed the National United elected a full executive, but surpris- Party from the government for failing ingly, none of the office bearers were to discipline some of its members for from the Stevens family, although serious allegations of corruption. As a Jimmy Stevens had numerous children, result of Lini’s poor handling of nup two of whom, Franky and Yakato, affairs, several dissatisfied members have been involved in politics since his of Parliament had withdrawn to join death (VDP, 15 May 2010). It remains other parties, 2 to the Alliance Group to be seen if this marks the beginning and 1HDFKWRWKH9DQXD©DNX3DWLDQG of the transformation of Nagriamel WKH9DQXDWX5HSXEOLFDQ3DUW\$VD 516 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011) result, only 3 nup members remained to Regenvanu’s goals and with the in Parliament. strength to resist pressure from other It is not clear why the other major parties and politicians to sell out in SROLWLFDOSDUW\WKH9DQXDWX5HSXEOL- return for special favors (VDP, 15 Nov can Party, did not meet officially dur- 2010). ing 2010, though the decision by two During 2010, community frustra- members to side with the government tion remained high over the contin- rather than with Korman in a coali- ued inability (or unwillingness) of tion reshuffle later in the year would the government to deal with pressing indicate some division within party problems and alleged illegal activities ranks. Korman, therefore, may have by politicians and government offi- been reluctant to call a congress, but cials, some of which date back several he remained party president. years. The weekly Vanuatu Indepen- A development that surprisingly dent resumed publication of a list of warranted only a back-page report in “Answers Still Urgently Needed from the Daily Post was the establishment Government,” many relating to issues in early November of a new politi- regularly raised by Transparency cal party, the Graon mo Jastis Party 9DQXDWXLQLWVFROXPQSXEOLVKHGLQWKH (Land and Justice Party), by popu- Daily Post. Of particular concern was ODULQGHSHQGHQW3RUW9LODmp Ralph the inaction of government to respond Regenvanu (VDP, 11 Nov 2010). In the to public demand for an amendment 2008 election Regenvanu received the to the Ombudsman’s Act, giving highest number of votes in the history the ombudsman power to prosecute RIHOHFWLRQVLQ9DQXDWXFDPSDLJQLQJ people following the publication of against government corruption and reports (Independent, 20–26 Feb failure to prosecute cases of official 2010). breaches of the law, the poor per- The mistreatment of prisoners con- formance of government generally tinued to be of considerable concern in providing services to the public, in 2010 following the major breakout and the loss of land rights through a IURPWKH9LODSULVRQLQODWH2008, poorly structured leasing policy in the and the arrest of mps Ralph Regen- face of increasing land speculation by YDQXDQG0RDQD&DUFDVVHVZKRKDG foreign investors. These are all issues attempted to provide some protection that Regenvanu actively continued against feared police reprisals. Both to promote during 2010. Looking had their cases dropped. The commu- toward the 2012 election, Regenvanu nity was shocked by the prison escape, announced that he would be seek- but even more by the assault of Marc ing suitable candidates in the islands Neil-Jones, the publisher of the Daily to run under the Graon mo Jastis Post,E\PHPEHUVRIWKH&RUUHFWLRQDO Party in the hope of entering Parlia- Services, following his publication ment with a block of new members, of a strongly worded editorial call- large enough to have an influence on ing for the then acting director of the coalition formation and government &RUUHFWLRQDO6HUYLFHV-RVKXD%RQJ policy generally. It will be a chal- to step down. To this day, the officers lenge to find good people, committed involved have not been brought to pol i t ical reviews melanesia 517 justice, while Bong was subsequently commissioner, and radical changes appointed commissioner of police. to police systems. In addition to the Related to this incident is the even attempts made to undermine the more serious unresolved case of a inquiry, Judge Dawson revealed that a young man from the island of Ambae senior vmf officer had issued a death by the name of James Bule, who threat against him in the presence of was arrested for an offense, joined numerous witnesses, and rifle-waving the major breakout from prison, vmf officers had made shows of force was re-apprehended, and then died QHDUWKHFRXUWURRP1HZ=HDODQG in custody on 29 March 2009 from Minister of Foreign Affairs Murray severe injuries to his body while in 0F&XOO\H[SUHVVHGKLVJRYHUQPHQWªV WKHKDQGVRIPHPEHUVRIWKH9DQXDWX concern regarding the threats and Military Force (vmf). After much police brutality, which he said could delay, caused by the difficulty in adversely affect continued aid to procuring the required documenta- 9DQXDWX0F&XOO\DOVRLQWHQGHGWR tion from the vmf, in March 2011 the consult with his Australian counter- coroner, Nevin Dawson (a Supreme part, given that targeted assistance to &RXUWMXGJHVHFRQGHGIURP1HZ the vmf was a major Australian aid =HDODQG SUHVHQWHGDVFDWKLQJUHSRUW project (VDP, 15 March 2010). of the evidence given at the inquest. 7KH*RYHUQPHQWRI9DQXDWXªV Dawson stated that the vmf, from the response, delivered by the Acting top brass to the lower-ranked offi- Minister for Internal Affairs Sato cers, appeared to have contrived their Kilman, stressed the government’s reports, indicating a predetermined commitment to the rule of law and plan of what would be told to the emphasized the special conditions inquest and what would be withheld. under which the vmf were acting &RPPLVVLRQHU%RQJLWZDVUHSRUWHG at the time of the incident—protect- had to be recalled twice for failure to ing the community from dangerous produce a number of required docu- escaped prisoners. In Kilman’s view, ments, including a duty roster for the the main purpose of the coroner’s night in question, which appeared report was to raise awareness of mea- to be at least partially a fabrication. sures that need to be taken to ensure Dawson was appalled by what he that such incidents do not occur in described as extraordinarily obstruc- future, for example, preparing proper tive behavior by the country’s leading interrogation procedures and facili- law enforcement officer (VDP, 6 March ties, introducing new legislation that 2010). addresses the functions of the vmf in Dawson also said in his report relation to internal security, and so that the vmfKDGEUHDFKHG9DQXDWXªV forth. Nowhere in the announcement constitution, the United Nations printed in the Daily Post did Kilman Declaration of Human Rights, and address the issue of instituting proper the rule of law. He called for homi- investigations into the allegations cide and assault investigations into made by Judge Dawson in his report Bule’s death, perjury inquiries into the (VDP, 1 April 2010). It is significant HYLGHQFHJLYHQE\9DQXDWXªVSROLFH to note that as the year ended, no 518 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011) criminal charges had been laid by the rectional Services that resulted in the public prosecutor against any of the prison breakout and death in custody individuals named in the report. The of the recaptured prisoner, James Bule UROHRI9DQXDWXXQLIRUPHGRIILFLDOVLQ (VDP, 7 May 2010). guaranteeing public safety continues In addition, debate over media to be a serious problem. RZQHUVKLSLQ9DQXDWXVXUIDFHGDVD The media became an issue in hot issue, at least in the media, when 9DQXDWXGXULQJ2010 with Transpar- Neil-Jones submitted an application HQF\9DQXDWXZKLFKFRQWULEXWHV for a broadcasting license. The Media regularly to the Daily Post, publish- $VRVLHVHQ%ORQJ9DQXDWX 0HGLD ing an article in May on the issue $VVRFLDWLRQRI9DQXDWX RSSRVHGWKH of media freedom and freedom of application on the grounds that the LQIRUPDWLRQLQ9DQXDWX7UDQVSDU- media industry should be included in HQF\9DQXDWXSRLQWHGRXWWKDWWKH the reserve list of businesses that are government had dominant control UHVWULFWHGWRLQGLJHQRXV1L9DQXDWX$ over the flow of news, seldom holding pro-indigenous media article appeared news conferences and only reacting in the weekly Vanuatu Times (whose to events under concerted pressure director coincidentally also operates from the media and the public, usually an fm radio station), arguing that in cursory responses to radio talk- indigenous people are being disadvan- back shows and letters to the editor. taged because foreigners are allowed Moreover, the government operates WRLQYHVWLQ9DQXDWX)XUWKHUPRUH the only local television station and, the Vanuatu Times owner accused ZKLOH9DQXDWXHQMR\VWKUHHUHJXODUO\ Neil-Jones of violating the media code published newspapers (one daily and of ethics and abusing media freedom two weeklies), there is limited analysis by “using the newspaper to cause of the news due to a dearth of investi- problems in society”—an obvious gative journalism. reference to his hard-hitting reporting. $FFRUGLQJWR7UDQVSDUHQF\9DQX- Neil-Jones responded, in a letter to atu, this journalistic reticence can be the Vanuatu Times, that he had lived explained by the government’s history LQ9DQXDWXIRUVHYHQWHHQ\HDUVDQG of threats and intimidation. A Brit- was a naturalized citizen and therefore ish journalist was deported in 1983 entitled under the constitution to the 0DF&ODQF\1984, 109); the editor same treatment and benefits as any of the government media services LQGLJHQRXV1L9DQXDWX+RZHYHUWKH was dismissed in 1991 for his refusal Vanuatu Times refused to publish the to cease publishing political news letter and Neil-Jones ended up print- 9DQ7UHDVH1995, 112–113); and the ing it in his own Daily Post (VDP, 26 current publisher of the Daily Post, Oct 2010). Marc Neil-Jones, was also deported, The acting prime minister, when although the order was successfully asked his opinion on the issue, replied overturned following a court appeal. that media ownership should be open As noted earlier, Neil-Jones was also WRDOOFLWL]HQVRI9DQXDWX VDP, 21 Oct physically assaulted in 2009 in his 2010). One outraged reader wrote office following an editorial he wrote to the Daily Post, defending freedom GHVFULELQJWKHGHILFLHQFLHVLQWKH&RU- of the press and condemning the call pol i t ical reviews melanesia 519 for the government to implement a atu government submitted the bill to media policy “folem colour blo skin Parliament (Makin 2010). emi [according to skin color] as pure In January there was a political racism, period!” (VDP, 3 Nov 2010). complication when it was reported Several foreign policy issues also that Minister of Internal Affairs had a significant impact on local poli- 0RDQD&DUFDVVHV WKHRQO\QDWXUDO- tics during 2010. One in particular, a ized citizen in Parliament, a Franco- GLVSXWHEHWZHHQ9DQXDWXDQG)UDQFH phone and the leader of the Greens over the ownership of two uninhabited in the Alliance Group) had on a visit volcanic islands to the extreme south WR1HZ&DOHGRQLDDOOHJHGO\WROG of the group, Matthew and Hunter, French officials that the majority of aroused considerable public interest the population of the southern islands and seemed to unite opposing politi- RI9DQXDWXGLGQRWDJUHHZLWKWKH cal factions. The problem predates government’s stance on Matthew and LQGHSHQGHQFHZKHQ9DQXDWXªVWZR Hunter (VDP, 20 Jan 2010). Prime former colonial powers, Great Britain Minister Natapei came under pressure and France, failed to deal with the to discipline his minister but refused issue. Matthew and Hunter became a to do so, claiming that the incident diplomatic problem in 2010 when the was based merely on speculation (VDP, *RYHUQPHQWRI9DQXDWXVXEPLWWHG 30 Jan 2010). Several months later, a bill to Parliament for the Maritime however, it was reported and con- =RQH$FWVSHOOLQJRXW9DQXDWXªVWHU- ILUPHGE\&DUFDVVHVKLPVHOIWKDWWKH ritorial rights and including the two )UHQFKDPEDVVDGRUWR9DQXDWXKDG disputed islands within the country’s paid him a visit to express France’s boundary. concern about the bill. Ham Lini, 9DQXDWXªVFODLPLVEDVHGRQFXVWRP the leader of the Opposition, accused and the legendary god Majikijiki, who France of “interference in the internal arrived in the southern islands via affairs of the nation” and alleged that Umaeneag (Hunter) and Umaenupne the ambassador had threatened the (Matthew) in the distant past, and possibility of France “withdrawing its the fact that these islands geologically DLGDVVLVWDQFHWR9DQXDWX¨LIWKHELOO IRUPSDUWRIWKH9DQXDWXLVODQGFKDLQ were passed—this being the reason, VHSDUDWHGIURP1HZ&DOHGRQLDDQG he said, for the government’s decision the Loyalty Islands by the continental to temporarily withdraw the bill from shelf and the New Hebrides Trench. debate. At the same time, Lini accused Taking advantage of the lack of formal the Natapei government of being documentation during the days of the divided on the matter of how to deal $QJOR)UHQFK&RQGRPLQLXPRIWKH with the French threat (VDP, 7 June New Hebrides, and ignoring a Kanak 2010). liberation movement pronouncement The ambassador denied the accusa- that the indigenous people of New tion of interference, stating that “the &DOHGRQLDKDGQRFODLPRQWKHWZR French authorities wish this question southern islands, the French govern- to be discussed with the same friendly ment decided to insist more vigorously VSLULWWKDWSUHVLGHVRYHUDOO9DQXDWX on its claim to sovereignty and became and France relations,” noting the vari- SDUWLFXODUO\FRQFHUQHGZKHQWKH9DQX- RXVZD\VLQZKLFK9DQXDWXEHQHILWHG 520 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011) from its cooperation with France. The DWWLWXGHWRZDUG9DQXDWXLVLQTXHV- acting leader of the Opposition at this tion (VDP, 10 June 2010). The bill was time, Harry Iauko, strongly criticized reintroduced and a vote took place the Natapei-led government for allow- on 17 June amid much confusion. ing the French government to use aid A group of chiefs from the southern PRQH\WREX\LQIOXHQFHLQ9DQXDWX island of Tanna who had gathered and implied that if the late Father to ensure that the bill was debated Walter Lini and Barak Sope (who was were excluded from Parliament by the first secretary to the government in Speaker, who feared disruptive behav- the early 1980s) were still in power, ior. The bill passed, but without the the ambassador would probably be Opposition, who claimed to support deported for political interference it but then refused to vote because of (VDP, 8 June 2010). It is interesting to the Speaker’s decision to exclude the note that in criticizing Natapei, Iauko Tanna chiefs (VDP, 19 June 2010). (one of the so-called young politi- 3DVVDJHRIWKH0DULWLPH=RQH cians) had become the champion of Act did nothing to end the dispute WUDGLWLRQDO9DQXD©DNX3DWLSRVLWLRQV EHWZHHQ9DQXDWXDQG)UDQFHDQG replacing the old guard. the issue resurfaced in November, Over the next few days, the when rumors circulated in the com- president of the Malvatumauri (the munity that a secret government plan 1DWLRQDO&RXQFLORI&KLHIV LQGL- to send the country’s naval patrol vidual chiefs from Tanna, and a boat, Tukoro, to visit the islands had former president, Jean-Marie Léyé been intercepted by French intel- from Aneityum (the island closest ligence in Noumea. It was reported, to Matthew and Hunter) spoke out though she denied it, that the French against the French claim to the islands ambassador visited the Tukoro to (VDP, 11 June, 16 June 2010). In addi- discourage the undertaking of the trip. tion, several articles and letters to the Indeed, it transpired that the ambas- editor also appeared in the local press sador had instead actually gone to condemning the French position and the Office of Maritime Surveillance the attitude of some Francophones— and the commissioner of police—in in effect, questioning their loyalty to itself, a shockingly confrontational 9DQXDWX VDP, 12 June 2010). Like- and undiplomatic act. Neverthe- wise, a surprisingly confrontational less, the ambassador’s action raised letter appeared in the Daily Post concerns in some quarters, and the IURP§$ZRUULHG,QGLJHQRXV&LWL]HQ¨ revelation that the French government raising the issue of the French ambas- was spying on the sovereign state of VDGRUªVYLVLWWR0LQLVWHU&DUFDVVHV,W 9DQXDWXHYRNHGWKHKHDGOLQHLQWKH pointed out that the minister was a Daily Post:§)UDQFH%XOOLHV9DQXDWX Francophone and nonindigenous—a over Matthew, Hunter” (VDP, 28 Oct, matter seldom raised in public and 30 Oct 2010). Barak Sope noted in LQGLFDWLQJWKDWWKHROG$QJORSKRQH an interview with the Daily Post that Francophone divide is still a factor in 1983 he had been instrumental in in politics and, indeed, an especially deporting a French ambassador for potent one when the issue of France’s interference in government matters pol i t ical reviews melanesia 521 and suggested that the current ambas- It is obvious, however, that the aim sador should have raised the issue of this policy is to mask France’s with the minister of foreign affairs real strategy—professing to support (VDP, 4 Nov 2010). Probably in order independence but in reality simply to demonstrate his determination to refusing to adopt policies designed to SURFHHGZLWK9DQXDWXªVFODLPDQG give genuine recognition to the aspira- counter any impression that he was tions of the indigenous populations of less than strong on the issue, Natapei their colonies. This is the strategy they announced that the government and followed unsuccessfully in the case of the Malvatumauri would be staging 9DQXDWXLQWKH1960s and 70s, which DSXEOLFPDUFKLQVXSSRUWRI9DQX- aimed to prevent independence and atu’s claim over Matthew and Hunter, gave support to the secessionist rebel- appealed to France to relinquish its lion against the democratically elected FODLPDQGQRWHGWKDW9DQXDWXZRXOG JRYHUQPHQWRI)DWKHU:DOWHU/LQL 9DQ be proceeding with its claim at the Trease 1995, 3–58). United Nations (VDP, 24 Nov, 29 Nov Of their three colonies—French 2010). 3RO\QHVLD:DOOLV)XWXQDDQG1HZ 9DQXDWXªVUHODWLRQVZLWK)UDQFH &DOHGRQLD¦WKHODWWHUKDVEHHQWKH are, of course, much more complicated most problematic for the French than simply disputing the sovereignty JRYHUQPHQW7KH9DQXDWXJRYHUQPHQW of a couple of uninhabited islands. gave strong support to the Kanak Nowadays the French government independence movement, the Front de promotes the idea, and would like to Libération Nationale Kanak Socialiste believe, that France has become an (flnks) in the 1980s, and in 1986 accepted member of the larger Pacific WKH9DQXDWXJRYHUQPHQWVSRQVRUHG community, having cast off its pariah 1HZ&DOHGRQLDIRUUHLQVFULSWLRQWR status caused by the attack by French WKH8QLWHG1DWLRQV&RPPLWWHHRI24 government agents in 1985 on the RQ'HFRORQL]DWLRQ9DQXDWXZDVDOVR Greenpeace vessel, the Rainbow War- instrumental in getting agreement rior (which resulted in the death of a for the inclusion of the flnks as a member of the crew); the massacre of member of the Melanesian Spearhead nineteen pro-independence Kanaks Group, founded in 1988. With the RQ2XYpD1HZ&DOHGRQLDLQ1988; VSOLWLQWKH9DQXD©DNX3DWLLQ1991 and its program of nuclear testing and the subsequent election of a in French Polynesia, which had only Korman-led ump government, rela- ceased in 1996. The French govern- WLRQVEHWZHHQ9DQXDWXDQG)UDQFH ment’s long-term objective, which it took a different turn. Korman reversed has followed for almost fifty years, is the former vp government’s unequivo- to be able to remain permanently in cal support for the flnks and obvious the Pacific. Over the last two decades enmity toward France. it has dispensed aid and assistance Francophones held power, under to Pacific Island countries (such as 0D[LPH&DUORW.RUPDQRU6HUJH surveillance of fishing grounds and 9RKRUXQWLO1998, and are often support during natural disasters), in coalition with anglophone par- which must certainly be appreciated. ties as in 2010. Maintaining and 522 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011) strengthening this political divide aspirations of the indigenous Kanak through targeted aid designed to people are not being met (VDP, 4 June, strengthen Francophonie is a priority 12 June 2010). for the French government today to It is not clear exactly when the msg LQVXUHWKDW9DQXDWXIROORZVDPRUH report was discussed at the Forum, moderate public position with regard but it had obvious negative repercus- to continued French colonialism in sions for the French. The governments the Pacific. For example, the French RIERWK1HZ&DOHGRQLDDQG)UHQFK government has committed itself Polynesia had requested that their par- to supporting a new ump language ticipation at the Forum be upgraded policy proposed in 2009, under which from the level of associate status, that all children from class 1 through 8 is, that they be able to take part in would be educated predominately in the leaders’ retreat, which is reserved French; for the small percentage of for heads of state and government students who go on to high school in of the member countries. This was subsequent years, English would be not agreed to and in the final Forum the medium of instruction for those communiqué, with specific reference ZKRFKRVHLW VHH9DQ7UHDVH2009, WR1HZ&DOHGRQLDWKHSRLQWZDV 475). made that the territory would have to In early June 2010, Prime Minister “continue their dialogue with France Natapei led a four-day fact-finding in order to be able to satisfy the full Melanesian Spearhead Group (msg) membership” (pif 2010). Given past PLVVLRQWR1HZ&DOHGRQLDDWWKH history, it is relevant to contemplate request of the flnks, to assess the ZKDWWKHSRVLWLRQRIWKH9DQXDWXJRY- progress of the 1998 Noumea Accord ernment would have been on the issue and to determine ways that the msg RI1HZ&DOHGRQLDDWWKLVWLPHKDGWKH could assist. The report was to be prime minister been a Francophone. tabled at the Pacific Islands Forum During 2010, the Opposition regu- meeting scheduled to take place in larly accused the Natapei government 3RUW9LODLQ$XJXVW7KHDLPRIWKH of being weak on issues relating to accord is to progressively transfer foreign affairs. In fact, what may have SRZHUWR1HZ&DOHGRQLDQDXWKRUL- appeared at times to be hesitation or ties until the territory decides, in a wavering could more appropriately referendum to be held between 2014 be described simply as the practice of and 2019, whether to remain within cautious diplomacy. Of all the politi- the French Republic or to become an FDOSDUWLHVWKH9DQXD©DNX3DWLKDG independent state. The prime minister the most knowledgeable and experi- reported that the mission was con- enced team, headed by Joe Natuman, cerned about the slow rate of progress a university-educated minister of in the implementation of the accord foreign affairs who had held various and, in particular, the continued exis- other portfolios, and Prime Minister tence of significant social and eco- Natapei’s private secretary, Nikenike nomic imbalances between the indig- 9XUREDUDYXZKRKROGVDPDVWHUªV enous Kanak population and other degree in international affairs from groups—evidence that the genuine the University of London and worked pol i t ical reviews melanesia 523 for the Forum for a number of years RQ&KLHIªV'D\5 March 2010, when during the 1990s. Minister of Foreign Affairs Joe Natu- The cautious nature of the govern- man accepted a petition from more ment’s diplomacy became especially than 200 West Papua sympathizers, clear with regard to the West Papua including the president of the Malva- issue, which flared up in early 2010, tumauri, two former prime minis- remained in the public debate until ters, Opposition leader Ham Lini, the end of the year, and significantly and many community leaders who impacted the stability of the coalition KDGOLQNVWRWKHSHULRGRI9DQXDWXªV JRYHUQPHQW,Q)HEUXDU\WKH9DQXDWX struggle for independence. The way Free West Papua Association (vfwpa) in which the petition was presented planned to hold a peaceful march in was important. The marchers first 3RUW9LODWRUDLVHDZDUHQHVVRI:HVW presented the petition and a large pig Papua in anticipation of the meet- to the president of the Malvatumauri, ings of the Pacific Islands Forum and which he accepted. He then presented Melanesian Spearhead Group later in the petition and a different pig with the year. The intention was to hold the full circular tusks to the minister of march on Lini Day (a public holiday foreign affairs. The circular-tusked pig in commemoration of the country’s symbolized the high level of respect first prime minister) in recognition of that the president of Malvatumauri Father Lini’s famous statement, “So was requesting from the government long as any Pacific Islands remain in its consideration of the petition. In colonized, none of us is free.” Since a letter to the Daily Post, a representa- WKH9DQXD©DNX3DWLKDGIDFLOLWDWHGWKH tive of the Malvatumauri explained founding of the vfwpa in the 1980s, that “the petition was being presented it came as a surprise to many that the with the value of custom attached Natapei government refused to allow to it requiring that it be honored, if the march to go ahead. The headline accepted and subsequently received by in the Daily Post the next day read: the recipient, rather than the govern- “Government Takes U-turn over ment receiving a piece of paper with West Papua.” In response, a govern- demands” (VDP, 9 March 2010). ment official pointed out that since Minister Natuman noted in a short 9DQXDWXKDGIRUPDOGLSORPDWLFUHOD- VSHHFKWKDW9DQXDWXZRXOG§QHYHU tions with Indonesia, it had in effect forget its history and where we have accepted Indonesian sovereignty over come from. And decolonization has :HVW3DSXD9DQXDWXKDGWKHULJKWWR and will be the cornerstone of our express concerns about human rights foreign policy.” He also made the violations and other issues, but ques- SRLQWWKDW9DQXDWXVWLOOVXSSRUWHG tioning the sovereignty of West Papua West Papua, despite having diplo- would be interpreted as interfering in matic relations with Indonesia, and the internal affairs of Indonesia (VDP, made mention of the fact that it had 18 Feb, 25 Feb 2010). QRWEHHQXQGHUD9DQXD©DNX3DWL–led But within a few days, the gov- government that diplomatic rela- ernment reversed its decision and tions had been established but in the approved a march, which took place 1990s when the Union of Moderate 524 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011)
Parties had control of the govern- ably (VDP, 5 July 2010). When the ment under the leadership of Maxime Melanesian Spearhead Group and the &DUORW.RUPDQDQG6HUJH9RKRU VDP, Pacific Islands Forum met in August, a 6 March 2010). Rumors circulating group of six West Papuans traveled to two months later that the minister had 9DQXDWXWRSUHVHQWUHTXHVWVLQVXS- been invited to talks in Jakarta elicited port of their cause (VDP, 4 Aug 2010). strong condemnation from the Oppo- However, PNG Prime Minister Sir sition’s Ham Lini. He reminded the Michael Somare objected to discussing JRYHUQPHQWRI9DQXDWXªVRZQFRORQLDO West Papua at the Forum and it was history and the support that the then eventually learned that the issue had New Hebrides had received, enabling not been included on the agenda (VDP, the country to be enlisted with the UN 6 Aug, 7 Aug 2010). &RPPLWWHHRI24 for Decolonization, The effect was to undermine the which eventually led to independence position of the Natapei government. (VDP, 4 May 2010). To the public, it appeared that the By June it appeared that both prime minister had not lobbied hard government and opposition had enough for the West Papua cause. agreed on a common policy. It was When it was reported that Indonesia agreed that Prime Minister Natapei KDGGRQDWHGQHZXQLIRUPVWR9DQX- should lodge a motion with the UN atu for the police force and that the VHFUHWDU\JHQHUDORQEHKDOIRI9DQXDWX government had entertained a high- for the inclusion of a debate on the level Indonesian official, the political status of West Papua on the agenda ramifications increased. A government of the 2010 session of the General member of Parliament, David Abel Assembly. A motion to this effect, (and there may have been others) known as the Wantok Blong Yumi announced that he was having discus- %LOO 2XU&RPPRQ3HRSOHVª%LOO ZDV sions with the Opposition about a tabled in Parliament by independent possible change of sides (VDP, 9 Aug mp Ralph Regenvanu, moved by the 2010). Foreign Minister Natuman prime minister, seconded by the then UHSOLHGWKDW9DQXDWXZDVXQDEOHWR Leader of the Opposition Maxime achieve its goal with regard to the &DUORW.RUPDQDQGSDVVHGXQDQL- Forum because it needed full msg mously. Included was an appeal for support and that had not been forth- the General Assembly to ask the Inter- coming due to the position of Papua QDWLRQDO&RXUWRI-XVWLFHWRSURYLGH New Guinea (VDP, 11 Aug 2010). an advisory opinion on the process by &RPSOLFDWLQJWKHPDWWHUIXUWKHU which the Netherlands had ceded West was the government decision (which Papua to Indonesia in 1962 and the had not been communicated to the conduct or effect of the 1969 Act of public beforehand) that the prime min- )UHH&KRLFH VDP, 21 June 2010). ister would not mention West Papua On a visit to the United Kingdom, in his speech at the United Nations in Regenvanu canvassed parliamentari- October. Instead, Natapei urged UN DQVIRUVXSSRUWRIWKH9DQXDWXPRWLRQ members to address issues of colonial- in the United Nations and reported ism, making a clear reference to the that he had been received favor- GLIILFXOW\WKDW9DQXDWXZDVH[SHULHQF- pol i t ical reviews melanesia 525 ing with France over Matthew and elections, the Pacific Islands Forum Hunter (Maclellan 2010). Natapei’s had suspended Fiji, but the msg failure to champion the West Papua decided to continue to engage with cause was unforgivable and the Bainimarama, hoping that he could reaction was explosive. The front- be convinced to compromise on his page headline in the Daily Post read: position. Despite several face-to-face “Natapei Fails Promise in Parliament meetings with the commander, Nata- on W-Papua,” noting that he had not pei, as msg chairman during 2009 and followed the mandate Parliament had 2010, failed to change Bainimarama’s given him in the Wantok Blong Yumi mind. The looming problem for Nata- Bill to speak out for West Papuan SHLZDVWKDW9DQXDWXZDVGXHWRKDQG decolonization (VDP, 15 Oct 2010). over the msg chairmanship to Fiji at Succumbing to diplomatic pressures a meeting in Suva in July. This meant and their view of what was possible that Natapei would have to hand over JLYHQ9DQXDWXªVIRUPDOLQWHUQDWLRQDO the leadership of the organization to commitments, Natapei and his govern- an unelected leader, which Natapei ment appeared to be weak. felt obliged to take action to prevent, The leader of the Opposition given that underlying the msg is the wrote to the Speaker requesting that fundamental principle of democracy, Parliament be called on 25 October which all members are committed to to debate a motion of no confidence practice. In view of the impasse with in Prime Minister Natapei. Among Bainimarama, Natapei consulted the reasons given was the failure of with the other msg leaders (Papua the prime minister to follow Parlia- New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and ment’s motion to present the issue the flnks) and it was agreed (though of West Papua to the United Nations there is some debate as to how united (VDP, 15 Oct 2010). A few days later, they were on the decision) that the amid claims by various members of Suva meeting should be postponed Parliament that they felt they were (VDP, 13 July 2010). being manipulated, with signatures Bainimarama responded only hours being added and withdrawn from after the announcement by accusing the motion, the Opposition found it Natapei of bowing to the wishes of did not have the numbers to proceed the Australians and by expelling the and so the attempt to unseat Natapei Australian ambassador in Suva, who collapsed (VDP, 20 Oct 2010). he claimed was trying to persuade The third major diplomatic issue other regional diplomats in Fiji not facing the Natapei government during to attend the msg meeting. The Daily 2010 was the problem of Fiji’s posi- Post printed stories that the Austra- tion in the Melanesian Spearhead lian government had been promising Group. It had been four years since financial aid and other benefits to msg &RPPRGRUH)UDQN%DLQLPDUDPDOHGD members in an effort to achieve the coup that overthrew Fiji’s democrati- postponement of the meeting (VDP, cally elected government. Due to his 14 July 2010). Leader of the Opposi- unwillingness to commit to a return WLRQ0D[LPH&DUORW.RUPDQUHDFWHG to democracy by scheduling new strongly against Natapei’s decision in 526 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011) an interview, saying that he could see together quite successfully, with no reason for the delay and that the the National United Party and the result “has destroyed the trust and 9DQXDWX5HSXEOLFDQ3DUW\LQRSSRVL- FRQILGHQFHWKDW)LMLKDVKDGLQ9DQX- tion. Nevertheless, the vp problem atu’s neutral position in dealing with remained unresolved, and with Iauko Fiji’s situation” (VDP, 17 July 2010). in the Opposition and determined to 7KH9DQXDWXJRYHUQPHQWªVSRVL- topple the party leadership, it was tion looked even weaker when, a certain that he would try to destabilize week later, Bainimarama was able to the coalition whenever an opportu- convince the heads of government nity presented itself. Earlier, in May, from Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, a rumor had begun to circulate that Solomon Islands, and Tuvalu and the a motion of no confidence was being ambassadors or representatives of the considered among the backbenchers, Federated States of Micronesia, the but nothing came of it (VDP, 14 May Marshall Islands, Nauru, Timor-Leste, 2010). and Tonga to attend an “Engaging Likewise, in September, as the msg Fiji” meeting in place of the post- issue began to fade, dissatisfaction poned msg leaders’ summit. Korman’s within the Alliance Group regarding response was to call for Natapei to the division of portfolios was lead- resign (VDP, 23 July 2010). The gov- ing some members of Parliament to ernment did, however, receive positive threaten to move to the Opposition. acknowledgement for its stand from The problem appeared to be limited to 7UDQVSDUHQF\9DQXDWXZKLFKFRP- the People’s Progressive Party (prob- mended Natapei for “his courageous ably encouraged by Iauko), but Sato stand in upholding the core principles Kilman was reelected at the party con- of democracy despite the mounting gress and the disquiet subsided (VDP, 4 pressure from and within the region” Sept, 9 Sept 2010). At the same time, (VDP, 6 Aug 2010). Subsequent events, RQHRIWKHVL[3RUW9LODmps who had however, would indicate that such affiliated with the Alliance Group, principles are not widely held by many David Abel of the Shepherd Alliance, RI9DQXDWXªVSROLWLFDOOHDGHUVQRULW threatened to switch to the Opposi- would seem, by many in the region. tion over the government’s handling While creating significant public of the West Papua issue (VDP, 8 Sept debate among the small percentage 2010). This was one of Iauko’s main of the public who read newspapers criticisms as well, which prompted (something not to be overlooked the Opposition, as noted earlier, to generally when trying to understand attempt a motion of no confidence in RUJDXJH1L9DQXDWXYLHZVRISROLWL- late October, though this also failed to cal developments), the call for the get enough signatures. government’s resignation received no In late October, in a sign of sup- support. Indeed, despite the earlier port for the government, ump leader challenge to his leadership of the 6HUJH9RKRULVVXHGDVWURQJSOHDIRU 9DQXD©DNX3DWLE\+DUU\,DXNR1DWD- members of Parliament to remain pei had been able to hold the coalition loyal to their parties and not be lured (the vp, ump, and the Alliance Group) by the Opposition to destabilize the pol i t ical reviews melanesia 527 current coalition. This was followed Speaker George Wells (a member of by a public announcement by vp, ump, the Alliance Group) banned all media and Alliance ministers that the coali- and the public from the chamber (VDP, tion continued to be solid (VDP, 19, 8 Dec 2010). Once the members had 20, 21, 23 Oct 2010). However, by the convened, Kilman led his Alliance end of November, Iauko sponsored yet Group to cross the floor to join the another no-confidence motion against Opposition, boosting its numbers to Prime Minister Natapei. All the lead- 30 out of 52. When the no-confidence ers of the major parties were heavily motion was put to a vote, it was involved in “Forgiveness Week” at the passed with 30 votes in favor, 15 time and it appeared that the motion votes against, and 7 abstentions. The was just another attempt doomed resulting new coalition consisted of to failure for lack of support. The the Alliance Group (including the ppp reasons given for putting forward the and other small parties and indepen- motion included disapproval of the dents), nup, and vrp. Sato Kilman reduced budget tabled by the minister (ppp and Alliance leader) was declared of finance, failure of the prime min- prime minister with Ham Lini (nup) ister to raise the West Papua issue at as his deputy. The thirteen ministerial the United Nations, and the decision portfolios were allocated as follows: of the prime minister to defer the msg 7 to the Alliance Group, 2 to nup, 1 meeting (VDP, 27 Nov 2010). to vrp (plus the position of Speaker), The motion of no confidence was and 3 to the Iauko faction of the vp scheduled to be debated in Parliament (VDP, 3 Dec 2010). Significant was on Thursday, 2 December. The prime the allocation of the Ministry of Ni- minister appeared to be confident that 9DQXDWX%XVLQHVV'HYHORSPHQWWR his numbers were firm, as he decided LQGHSHQGHQW3RUW9LODMP and Alliance that he would not attend the parlia- Group member Ralph Regenvanu—an mentary session in order to take part indication of his growing influence LQWKH*OREDO0HHWLQJRQ&OLPDWH within the Alliance Group and in &KDQJHLQ0H[LFR VDP, 2 Dec 2010). politics generally. Therefore, on the morning of the A further reshuffle occurred two scheduled parliamentary session, weeks later when dissatisfaction arose Natapei was seen off at the airport over the allocation of portfolios. The by Sato Kilman, the deputy prime new Opposition, consisting of the minister, along with two other Alli- 1DWDSHLIDFWLRQRIWKH9DQXD©DNX DQFHPLQLVWHUV 0RDQD&DUFDVVHVDQG Pati (which was extremely angry over Paul Telukluk). It was reported that he the way Natapei had been removed), asked Kilman if “everything was ok,” the Union of Moderate Parties, meaning whether the no-confidence and several independents, took the motion was under control. Kilman opportunity to try to topple Kilman. confirmed that it was, they shook $VLVXVXDOLQ9DQXDWXSROLWLFVWKH\ hands, and Natapei departed (VDP, were able to entice a few govern- 8 Dec 2010). ment members who were dissatisfied A few hours later, when Parlia- about the allocation of portfolios and ment met for its afternoon session, other favors to sign the motion of no 528 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011) confidence. New Speaker Maxime what was coming, which is further &DUORW.RUPDQKRZHYHUUXOHGWKDW evidence that the vp leaders seemed two of the signatures on the motion to have become somewhat disengaged had been falsified and thus did not from political realities. At least, they allow the motion to be debated. This were clearly over-trusting of their allowed Kilman the opportunity to coalition partners; otherwise, why adjust the allocation of portfolios to would the prime minister have decided strengthen his coalition with the Alli- to travel out of the country—even to ance Group giving up one portfolio attend a meeting as representative for to the vrp (VDP, 16 Dec 2010). In the the Pacific Islands Forum—when his meantime, the Opposition challenged future was being debated? Not sur- the Speaker’s decision on the issue of prisingly, a few days after the change signatures with the two members in of government, the Daily Post printed question confirming that they had, an article from the Fiji Sun in which indeed, signed the motion. The acting &RPPRGRUH%DLQLPDUDPDKDLOHGWKH Speaker subsequently announced that ousting of Natapei. The article also the motion was in order with twenty- UHSRUWHGWKDWWKHZRUGIURP9DQXDWX seven signatures and would be debated was that Natapei’s defeat was directly on 24 December (VDP, 17 Dec, 18 Dec linked to his refusal to hand over the 2010). msg chairmanship to Bainimarama The final chapter in this classic (VDP, 7 Dec 2010). 9DQXDWXSROLWLFDOGUDPDRFFXUUHGRQ There is little evidence, however, 20 December, a few days before the that serious disagreements had existed scheduled debate, when ump President between the vp, ump, and Alliance 6HUJH9RKRUGHVHUWHGWKH2SSRVLWLRQ Group over the West Papua and the and his vp “allies” to join the Kilman- msg chairmanship issues. Neverthe- led government. The ump received less, within a few days after taking WZRSRUWIROLRV 9RKRUZDVDOORFDWHG office, Kilman and a delegation includ- public works (his former position in ing the president of Malvatumauri, the Natapei government) and Pente- &KLHI*UDWLHQ$OEXHW and several cost mp&KDUORW6DOZDLUHWXUQHGWRKLV accompanying chiefs, flew to Honiara former ministry, education. As a result to attend the handing over of the msg of the reshuffle, both the Alliance leadership. Their intention was to Group and the vrp gave up portfolios, FDUU\RXWDIXOOWUDGLWLRQDO9DQXDWX with the effect of strengthening gov- reconciliation ceremony between the ernment numbers to the extent that OHDGHUVRI)LMLDQG9DQXDWXEHIRUHWKH they were no longer threatened by a official meeting took place, which was vote of no confidence. True to form, to happen despite the fact that Baini- 9RKRUSOHGJHGDVKHKDGLQ2009 marama did not plan to attend the when he joined the Natapei govern- meeting himself (VDP, 14 Dec 2010). ment, that the “ump will remain with Just where this alleged opposition the Government to the end of the term to Natapei’s position came from is of this Government” (VDP, 21 Dec not clear. Was Kilman in disagree- 2010). ment all along with his former coali- Natapei and his team had not seen tion partner and head of government pol i t ical reviews melanesia 529
Prime Minister Natapei? Where did based on an ongoing policy position mp Regenvanu stand? And, most WKDWVLPSO\IDLOHG&HUWDLQO\DQ\ puzzling, what was the true position accusation that the Natapei govern- RI6HUJH9RKRUDQGKLVump members? ment had been persuaded to limit One explanation for the apparent their engagement with Bainimarama lack of any sign of division between appears to be an overstatement of the the coalition parties under Natapei IDFWV$XVWUDOLDQDQG9DQXDWXIRUHLJQ prior to both votes of no confidence affairs personnel certainly discussed (a common pattern over the years) the msg situation, but there is nothing PD\VLPSO\UHIOHFW9DQXDWXªVSDUWLFX- WRLQGLFDWHWKDW9DQXDWXªVSRVLWLRQ ODUVW\OHRIFRDOLWLRQSROLWLFV&DELQHW was bought and paid for. Australian members seem to have a free hand in DLGWR9DQXDWXKDVEHHQVLJQLILFDQW formulating and implementing policies and ongoing since independence in relating to their portfolios; there is a 1980. There was nothing about the minimal obvious sense of collective grants and funded projects during responsibility for what takes place in 2010 to suggest that any unusual government as a whole. effort was being made to influence the /LNHZLVHEHFDXVH1L9DQXDWX GHFLVLRQVRI9DQXDWXªVOHDGHUV,QGHHG prefer not to confront each other WKHQHZVSDSHUVLQ9DQXDWXUDQVWRULHV openly when there is disagreement, it almost every week about new aid- is difficult to determine if a policy has funded projects by an array of donors the support of the government as a LQFOXGLQJ$XVWUDOLD1HZ=HDODQG whole or simply that of a single min- )UDQFH-DSDQ&KLQDWKH(XURSHDQ LVWHU9HU\VHOGRPDUHGLVDJUHHPHQWV Union, and others. between ministers in government Moreover, as noted earlier, Baini- reported to the public. Thus, during PDUDPDFDPHWR3RUW9LODRQVHYHUDO the West Papua and msg debates, occasions for discussions, and the criticism of the government’s posi- government persisted in its attempt tion (that is, Natapei’s position) came to persuade the commander to alter primarily from Opposition members his policy, despite local criticism in and the public, not from members 2009, when it resisted pressure to of the Alliance Group or the ump. It support the sidelining of Bainima- seems logical to conclude, therefore, rama from the msg as the Forum had that when Kilman and the Alliance done. In July, when he departed to Group toppled the prime minister and attend the “Engaging Fiji” meeting then the ump deserted the vp, they (which was subsequently renamed were driven less by disagreements over “Engaging with the Pacific”), Foreign policies (though they may silently have Minister Natuman explained that the had them) than by the desire to grab *RYHUQPHQWRI9DQXDWXKDGUDLVHG political power. its concern with Bainimarama about The question remains whether or handing over the chairmanship to not Natapei and his team succumbed Fiji as early as 2009. The decision to to Australian pressure to block Baini- postpone the msg meeting was not marama’s bid for the msg chairman- in response to anything other than ship, or whether their decisions were his refusal to deal with the issue of 530 the contemporary pacific 23:2 (2011)
restoring democracy in Fiji (VDP, 20 References July 2010). The Natapei government had its Independent, The Vanuatu Independent. 3RUW9LOD:HHNO\ position vis-à-vis Bainimarama under- mined by weak political leaders both 0DF&ODQF\-919849DQXDWXVLQFH at home and abroad who simply did Independence: 1980-83. The Journal of not understand the nature of the Fiji Pacific History 19 (2): 100–112. VLWXDWLRQ,Q9DQXDWXWKHUHLVDJHQHUDO Maclellan, Nic. 2010. Searching the lack of awareness of the implications &RQWLQHQWDO6KHOI $XVWUDOLDDQG of the coup in Fiji, despite editori- France Explore Ocean Resources. als in the local press and articles by Islands Business, December. 7UDQVSDUHQF\9DQXDWXWKDWUHJXODUO\ KWWS ZZZLVODQGVEXVLQHVVFRP point out how the rule of law and LVODQGVBEXVLQHVVLQGH[BG\QDPLF democracy have been threatened. FRQWDLQHU1DPH7R5HSODFH 0LGGOH0LGGOH IRFXV0RGXOH,' 19480RYHULGH6NLQ1DPH Indeed, there is a widespread belief LVVXH$UWLFOHIXOOWSO that Bainimarama has been good for Fiji—sorting out corruption, the race Makin, Bob. 2010. Why Matthew and issue, and, being an indigenous Fijian +XQWHU,VODQGV$UH2XUV 9DQXDWX)LJKWV himself, looking after Fijian interests. for the Two Islands. Islands Business, June. In this regard, few appear to under- KWWS ZZZLVODQGVEXVLQHVVFRPDUFKLYHV LVODQGVBEXVLQHVVLQGH[BG\QDPLF stand the significance of his suspen- FRQWDLQHU1DPH7R5HSODFH 0LGGOH0LGGOH sion of the operation of Fiji’s Great IRFXV0RGXOH,' 19241RYHULGH6NLQ1DPH &RXQFLORI&KLHIVRURIKLVEORFNLQJ LVVXH$UWLFOHIXOOWSO of the annual meeting of the Method- LVW&KXUFK&OHDUO\WKHOHDGHURIWKH pif, Pacific Islands Forum. 2010. Forum Opposition’s comment that “it was &RPPXQLTXp41st Pacific Islands Forum, 3RUW9LOD9DQXDWX4–5 August. his belief that the decision was taken KWWS ZZZIRUXPVHFRUJUHVRXUFHV in the interest of foreign countries” XSORDGVDWWDFKPHQWVGRFXPHQWV2010 indicates a lack of understanding, B)RUXPB&RPPXQLTXHSGI or perhaps his desire simply to score political points by using tired argu- 9DQ7UHDVH+RZDUG1995. Melanesian ments of outside interference directed Politics: Stael Blong Vanuatu.&KULVW- FKXUFK 0DFPLOODQ%URZQ&HQWUHIRU mainly against the Australian gov- 3DFLILF6WXGLHV8QLYHUVLW\RI&DQWHUEXU\ ernment, accusations that regularly Suva: Institute of Pacific Studies, Univer- SHSSHUWKH9DQXDWXSUHVV VDP, 23 July sity of the South Pacific. French version: 2010). Likewise, Kilman’s rush to rec- La Politique Mélanésienne. oncile with Bainimarama after taking over from Natapei indicates a degree ———. 2010. Melanesia in Review: Issues and Events, 2009 9DQXDWXThe Contem- of support that he never expressed as porary Pacific 22:467–476. Natapei’s deputy prime minister and perhaps even an affinity as an ex-chief VDP, Vanuatu Daily Post.3RUW9LOD of police with a fellow member of the uniformed services. howard van trease