AGP Executive Report
Last update: 7 hours agoMaritime Crisis in Vanuatu: The MV Matui ferry tragedy is still unfolding off Santo and Ambae, with Vanuatu’s Prime Minister’s office saying 15 people have been accounted for alive, one body recovered, and more than 30 still missing after the vessel sank in rough seas on Friday. Accountability and Safety: The government says the loss appears linked to strong winds and marine warnings not being heeded, and “possibly” negligence including overloading, with a full investigation launched and ship owners urged to ensure seaworthy vessels and proper communications. Search and Rescue Shift: Search efforts are moving from open water toward the south-east coast where currents may have carried survivors, after criticism from an MP that the ground search began about 30 hours late amid confusion and misinformation. Government Control of Maritime Safety: In a major administrative move, responsibility for the Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority has been transferred to the Prime Minister’s Office as questions grow over enforcement and how the sector is overseen. Regional Governance Context: Separate from the ferry, Pacific leaders and meteorology officials are pushing for stronger early warnings and, crucially, better public action—an issue raised directly after the disaster.
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