Prime Minister of Vanuatu | |
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Praem Minista blong Vanuatu (Bislama) Premier Ministre de Vanuatu (French) | |
since 6 October 2023 | |
Term length | for as long as the Prime Minister has the confidence of Parliament |
Constituting instrument | Constitution of Vanuatu |
Formation | 30 July 1980 |
First holder | Walter Lini |
Salary | Vt 67,846 weekly (32,295 USD annually)[1] |
Website | https://ogcio.gov.vu/ |
The prime minister of Vanuatu is the head of government of the Republic of Vanuatu.
The office of prime minister was created under the Constitution of Vanuatu upon the country's independence in 1980, with independence campaigner Walter Lini becoming the first office-holder. The position is sometimes seen as a continuation of the older office of Chief Minister, which existed before Vanuatu obtained its independence. According to the Constitution, the prime minister is elected by the Parliament, of which s/he must be a member. The prime minister directly appoints or dismisses members of the Council of Ministers (cabinet ministers).
So far 13 men have served as Prime Minister of Vanuatu, some on multiple occasions.
The current prime minister is Charlot Salwai from Reunification Movement for Change, since 6 October 2023.