Gracia Shadrack

The suspension will end on 9 November 2023.

The Government tabled the motion to suspend MP Shadrack, following a declaration made by the former Speaker to vacate the seats of 19 MPs who were absent for three consecutive sittings of Parliament and later was ruled unlawful by the Supreme court and upheld by the court of appeal.

The motion to suspend MP Shadrack was moved by Leader of Government Business Anatole Hymak (MP) and seconded by Kenneth Natapei (MP), during the second ordinary session of Parliament today.

Gracia Shadrack said he was also looking into the positions of Opposition Whip, Leader of Government Business and Government Whip.

Shadrack said positions had been filled by MPs up until now despite there being no provision under the law.

Vanuatu Daily Post reported advice was being sought on whether the positions were constitutional or not.

The Speaker made the announcement when he was addressing Leader of Opposition, Ralph Regenvanu, on the appointment of a new Opposition Whip.

The parliament is sitting for the first time since the March election today, where a new prime minister and speaker will be selected.

Mr Shadrack is a member of the Leaders Party and the member for Malekula, and he was unopposed in his nomination to speaker.

He takes over from Simeon Seule, who last year ruled Mr Shadrack's seat vacant after he missed three sittings, a ruling that was overturned by the Supreme Court.

The parliament will select a new prime minister later this afternoon.

Photo VBTC