Port Vila Penama committee holds Constitution Day forum

The Port Vila Penama Day 2017 Celebration Committee organized a small legal discussion forum on Constitution Day this week at Maliudu nakamal at Tagabe.

Although, very hurriedly put together on the eve of the national day, it was attended by nearly 30 people who heard 15 minute presentations on subjects including: the Constitution of the Republic of Vanuatu; the three-tier system of government; recognizing the difference between the informal and formal legal systems; the formal and information governance systems; the criminal court, civil court and their roles in breaches of the laws; and public discussions on the subjects covered.

The speakers included the former Head of State and the Ombudsman and signatory to the Constitution, Kalkot Mataskelekele; Hamlison Bulu, the second Attorney General of the country, a former Supreme Court judge and a member of the Penama Day Celebration Committee, former Public Prosecutor Kayleen Tavoa and Chief Boborevon Vanua – Vira Leo.

Discussion also covered experiences, challenges, and ways forward. Chairman of Port Vila Penama Day 2017 Celebration Committee and moderator of the forum, William Ganileo, says the time was very interesting and points discussed would be compiled and progressed for possible further discussions to follow. Participants included legal officers Paul Jerry Boe and Eric Csiba.