Deputy PM Joe Natuman

Vanuatu Deputy PM to remain in office until sentencing

Natuman, who is also the Minister for Tourism, Trade, Commerce and Ni-Vanuatu Business, has pleaded guilty to two counts of obstructing or interfering with the execution of a criminal process.

Natuman reportedly has an agreement with the Prime Minister, Charlot Salwai, to remain in office for now.

He told Daily Post that he will hold the offices until his sentencing on March 16.

“Depending on how heavy or light the sentence will be, it will then be up to the Prime Minister or even myself,” he said.

Vanuatu deputy PM pleads guilty to conspiracy charge

Mr Natuman was accused of trying to stop a police team from investigating high-ranking officers when he was prime minister in 2014.

Sentencing is on 16 March.