4 Sep 2008

Previous coalition partners in Vanuatu expected to dominate new administration

7:42 pm on 4 September 2008

New Zealand's high commissioner to Vanuatu says there are encouraging signs in the early results in Vanuatu's election.

Official results are yet to be declared, but early indications are that the two main parties in the current coalition government have held their ground, but there will be at least 15 new MPs.

Jeff Langley says the past four years have delivered stable government, which makes it easier to get things done.

"What we're seeing in the result, is probably, certainly, the National United Party of Ham Lini, and the Vanua'aku Party of Ed Natapei being the two major parties, forming the basis of the governing coalition. Who they form that coalition with, will depend a little bit on the final results, the final numbers, and quite a bit of discussion and negotiation over the next few weeks."

Jeff Langley says some of the old faces may not be around in the coming government, but some of the vocal, high-profile newcomers will give an interesting new dimension to Vanuatu politics.