“They felt that it is important to show their respect to the previous leaders. That’s the main reason why the government members kind of spread out to vote for different leaders on the list,” he told Radio Australia.
Natapei said the government had seen the numbers from the poll and will meet to decide on a possible candidate.
Natapei said women should be given the opportunity to be elected to a high post such as that of the president of the Republic of Vanuatu.
One of the current female candidates was recommended by a government member before she formally submitted her name.
Unfortunately, Natapei said, most of the members of the Electoral College who come from the rural areas do not have that same view.
He said because of that the government was not able to give the support that she should get.
Natapei said it may be time for Vanuatu to consider women in parliament, in provincial councils, and other posts as high as the president.
Despite the low number of votes cast for women candidates during the election, Natapei said it was a good and healthy sign that Vanuatu was beginning to talk about involving women in politics and other decision making bodies.
The Electoral College was unable to elect a new head of state on Tuesday.
According to Radio Vanuatu, Vincent Boulekone received 16 votes, followed by Kalkot Mataskelekele with 14; Iolu Johnson Abil, 11; Yvette Sam and Jack Kalo Nial, 7 each; and one for David Lovis.
Five others have not secured a single vote from members of the Electoral College.
Chief Justice, Vincent Lunabek, who acted as the Retaining Officer, ordered the Electoral College to reconvene yesterday.
Lunabek appealed to all members of the Electoral College to take pride of their role and make a choice along national interest when they make their decision tomorrow as to who should become the next president.
