Barak Sope

RNZ reports Barak Sope said Indonesia is only on the committee to ensure the subject of self-determination in West Papua is not discussed.

Vanuatu is one of the strongest supporters of Papuan self-determination and Mr Sope has been one of the strongest advocates.

He said Vanuatu has a right to sit on two UN committees and should push to have its say on what is known as the Commmittee of 24.

Barak Sope, who led the country from 1999 to 2001, says Vanuatu risks being run by foreigners under its current policy.

Five naturalised citizens are contesting the snap election, out of over 200 candidates.

But Mr Sope says the law must be changed, and it was only prompted by politicians looking at ways of making money.