Vanuatu's controversial acting director general for Health, Dr. Santus Wari, has been removed and replaced by Viran Tovu who has extensive experience in public health.
The prime minister, Joe Natuman, who is also the public service minister, says Mrs Tovu has been appointed to the position for six months.
It is believed the six month period is to allow monitoring of her performance and assessment of her suitability for the job long term.
Dr Wari acquired notoriety after sacking three key officials who took him to court and got their jobs back.
He also suspended dozens of nurses who had complained, in a petition to the government, about the changes he was making.
