PORT VILA (Pacnews) — A major concern in many Pacific island countries now is the re-election of corrupt leaders, according to Vanuatu’s Ombudsman Hannigton Alatoa.
Speaking in the lead-up to the Forum Economic Ministers Meeting in Port Vila, Alatoa said: “This is a sad situation because they still return to power despite the fact that people know dirty dealings.”
“Another concern is the fact that none of the cases of leaders found guilty of corruption have been prosecuted,” Alatoa said.
In Vanuatu’s case, of the 50 cases referred to the prosecution office for further investigation and possible prosecution, no one has ever been convicted.
“This is frustrating for us. The future for us is bleak when leaders do not want to admit they are wrong. There have been breaches for the last seven years but nothing has been done about it.”
In Vanuatu, a former prime minister who was investigated and confirmed to be involved in illegal dealings was recently re-elected to Parliament.
“Where is justice in cases like this? At least for now in Vanuatu, the civil societies and many young educated people are starting to look at our leaders and question them on their promises or their involvement in suspicious activities,” Alatoa added.
Vanuatu put in place a Leadership Code in 1998 to keep the country’s leaders in check while holding public offices. This code is also currently under review.
