In a Tropical Island Paradise Prime Minister`s Job Still Up For Grabs
Released on: September 4, 2008, 8:13 pm
Press Release Author: lynthomas
Industry: Government
Press Release Summary: There is a struggle for power with the Prime Minister\'s job still up for grabs. The old guard has been upset and the struggle in the new guard begins.
Press Release Body: In the tiny archipelago nation of Vanuatu, one of the Lesser Developed nations of the South Pacific, general elections have not yet come fully of age. Computerized elections are still a long way off, in the 83 tropical islands. Voting day is an official holiday, but with its ancient heritage of doing as the village chief says, many villagers cast their votes at the say so of the chief. Other voters turned up with legal voting cards, only to be turned away, as their names did not appear on the lists of registered voters. Deliberate or not, no one will ever know.
While the votes are still being counted, the true battle for position is only just beginning. A clear majority has not been achieved by any of the parties.
Even though the results of the election will be far from complete for at least two to three weeks, talks have already begun between potential partners, in order to form the new government. Party leaders wait anxiously in the wings, as the role of Prime Minister is still up for grabs.
Custom pubs, the Nakamals, where local kava is served to the men, will be unofficial sparring rings of the political power-brokers. Already several proposed versions of the coalition are being passed around.
The Old Guard:
It would appear that some of the old guard have not been voted back in. Jimmy Willie says \"I am throwing a party to celebrate the end of 25 years in politics.\" As new faces hit the political scene, there may be many who will join Willie in the celebration.
Vanuatu, unlike other South Pacific nations has not suffered coups in recent years. Thus, it is one of the most stable nations in the area. This will remain the case, in spite of the fact that the elections will necessitate the forming of a coalition. It would appear that some of the old guard have not been voted back into the halls of power.
As with all political parties worldwide, there are those who feel they must take on the role of the mercenary. They are charismatic and say or do anything if the price is right.
In the ranks of newcomers there are also the single-minded missionaries, out to convert everyone to what they believe. They are frequently blinded by the brilliance of their own vision and are often seen walking the halls of power, behind a pair of designer sunglasses.
Other are taking on the role of managers. They know it is their sole responsibility to plan, execute and bring projects to completion, no matter the island nation moves at its own pace. These politicians firmly believe nothing will get done without their effort.
The old guard, in particular, has those who act as if they are a monarch. Maybe it is because of their length of service, or simply the \'wan-tok-system\' (who you are related to).They strongly believe they are the embodiment of supreme power. They see their lofty position as their kingly right.
Alchemist:
The Director Generals fill a special role as an Alchemist, which was clearly captured in the popular British TV comedy series, \'Yes Minister.\'
Vanuatu is fortunate in that it has a strong team of alchemists. Behind all the confusion of the coming weeks, as politicians jostle, shuffle, manipulate and generally power-broke for position, the DGs stay firmly entrenched. They don\'t get voted for and are the shadowy figures in the background, frequently flanking the voted for minster. They are the power behind the political throne.
Their manoeuverings and guidance are seen at all levels for they are the stability of a nation. They must take the middle ground, as no matter which politician rises or falls, the DGs have to carry on.
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