Vanuatu Votes in Snap Election Following Earthquake Devastation

The Pacific nation faces political instability and a costly recovery effort as citizens demand strong leadership to address compounding crises.

Vanuatu is holding a snap election less than a month after a 7.3-magnitude earthquake killed 14 people, displaced hundreds, and caused extensive damage in the capital, Port Vila.
The election was triggered by political instability, with the president dissolving parliament in November following a no-confidence motion against the prime minister.
Voters are choosing from 217 candidates vying for 52 parliamentary seats, with many prioritizing leadership capable of managing earthquake recovery and long-term disaster resilience.
The earthquake has exacerbated existing challenges, including rebuilding from prior cyclones, economic fallout from COVID-19, and the collapse of Air Vanuatu, with recovery costs estimated at $374 million.
Low voter turnout is a concern, with disillusionment about political instability and logistical challenges from the disaster potentially impacting participation.