Who is impacted? The Vanuatu Association of Non-Government Organizations (VANGO) highlights that the Vanuatu people are directly affected by the lack of transparency and accountability in the use of public funds for MPs’ allowances. These allowances, paid into personal bank accounts, represent a significant and unaccounted cost to the public, amounting to VT260 million in the 2024 National Budget.

What is at stake? If the proposed Bill No.10 is passed, MPs’ allowances could double, increasing from VT5 million to VT10 million, further straining public funds without proper accountability. This increase could divert resources from critical areas such as youth unemployment, education, health services, and transport connectivity.

Why is now the time to act? With the Parliamentary debate on the proposed Bill scheduled for November 7, 2024, immediate action is crucial. VANGO urges the Parliament to ensure transparency and accountability by directing the Auditor-General to report on MP allowance expenditures, ceasing payments into private accounts, and deferring the Bill for proper public consultation.