New Chairman of Citizenship Commission appointed

The Vanuatu Citizenship Commission has a new chairman after the previous chairman resigned to prepare for early elections. This transition marks a significant change in leadership for a crucial government body.

The new chairman is Charlie Maniel, a senior official in the Ports and Maritime Department of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities. President Nikenike Vurobaravu has officially appointed him to the position, bringing his expertise to the commission.

Clarence Marae, the Principal Private Secretary to the Head of State, confirmed to the Vanuatu Daily Post that the President signed the appointment instrument on February 26 and published it in the Official Gazette. Maniel was officially sworn in earlier this week, commencing his duties.

The Citizenship Office and the Citizenship Commission are constitutional bodies with significant legal powers, responsible for reviewing, approving, deferring, or rejecting citizenship applications. It also has the power to revoke citizenship granted in violation of the Citizenship Act, the national constitution, or other relevant laws, ensuring the integrity of the citizenship process.

Maniel was previously appointed as the Ports Operations Manager in 2016. Prior to resigning last year to contest the snap national election, he held a senior position within the department. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Maritime Regulatory Authority Office and served as the Acting Regulator, demonstrating his diverse experience in the maritime sector.

Maniel is a certified Class B hydrographic surveyor, having graduated from the Hydrographic Institute of Japan. He also holds a postgraduate diploma in Marine Management from the University of the South Pacific and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Maritime Management from the University of Tasmania, Australia, reflecting his strong academic background.

In addition, the new chairman is also an Elder and Session Clerk of the Presbyterian Church of Vila Central Malasitapu. A primary focus of his new role will be to ensure the implementation and enforcement of provisions related to citizenship within the Citizenship Act [Cap 112] and the national constitution, upholding the rule of law.

Maniel will serve in this position for five years, providing stability and continuity to the Citizenship Commission.