20 Dec 2017

Vanuatu MP issued with restraining order over land dispute

7:27 pm on 20 December 2017

A member of parliament in Vanuatu has been issued with a restraining order for his involvement in a land dispute.

Sanma MP Uri Warawara was issued the warrant by the Supreme Court for his alleged involvement in threats against the owners, clients and staff of Freshwater Plantation on Aore.

A statue at the entrance to Vanuatu's parliament in the capital, Port Vila.

A statue at the entrance to Vanuatu's parliament in the capital, Port Vila. Photo: RNZI / Jamie Tahana

The Daily Post reported the dispute was over a coastal landing area at St Michel, in Luganville.

The court said Mr Warawara and his family have harassed people travelling on water, which is defined as public land, to reach the plantation.

In his defence, the MP said his involvement in the matter was simply to defend his right as a custom owner of the area, and the plantation continued to develop without consultation.

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