The Vanuatu Government has condemned the Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs over its criticism of the appointment of Dr Anna Naupa as the new Director-General of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), describing the stance as discriminatory and calling for a public apology.
In a statement, the government said it was “deeply disappointed” by a front-page article published in the Daily Post that featured the Malvatumauri’s opposition to Dr Naupa’s appointment.
The government stressed that the appointment was made through an independent regional process.
“Let us be absolutely clear: this appointment is not a Vanuatu Government appointment. Dr Anna Naupa was selected through a rigorous, independent MSG panel process involving all MSG member countries. She was chosen on merit. She is the most qualified candidate for the position.”
The government said the Malvatumauri’s criticism undermined that process.
“For the Malvatumauri to attempt to undermine that process, and to do so on the basis of gender, is regressive, divisive, and an embarrassment to the very values of wisdom, unity and leadership our chiefs are meant to uphold.”
It said the council’s position reflected poorly on the country.
“By dragging the entire nation into this stance, the Malvatumauri has done a disservice to Vanuatu. At a time when Vanuatu is being recognised internationally for leadership on climate justice, and on regional solidarity, this act seeks to drag our country backward.”
The government also highlighted to what it described as an inconsistency in the council’s position.
“It is also deeply ironic. This is the same Malvatumauri office that in 2025 publicly considered establishing a Nakamal for women in Vanuatu. Today’s statement betrays that original position.”
The statement also criticised the Daily Post for its coverage.
“We also condemn the Daily Post for giving prominence to views that have no place in 2026. Journalism carries responsibility. To platform and amplify misogyny without context or challenge is to normalise it. Our media must lift the standard of national discourse, not lower it.”
The Office of the Prime Minister called on the Malvatumauri to apologise.
“The Office of the Prime Minister therefore demands an immediate and unqualified public apology from the Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs to Dr Anna Naupa, to the women of Vanuatu, and to the people of the MSG region”.
The government reaffirmed its support for Dr Naupa.
“Vanuatu’s future depends on unity, on merit, and on respect. We will not allow outdated and discriminatory attitudes to define us on the regional or world stage.”
“The Government stands firmly behind Dr Anna Naupa and her appointment. We wish her every success as she leads the MSG at this critical time for Melanesia, said the government statement.
