The leader of the Vanuatu opposition, Maxime Carlot Korman has accused the Prime Minister Edward Natapei of causing division in the Melanesian Spearhead Group, and undermining the country's reputation.
This comes amid reports that MSG meetings are to be held from this Thursday in Solomon Islands to try and mend the rift with Fiji caused by Natapei cancelling the MSG summit in Nadi in July.
The Solomon Star said Korman claimed Natapei wanted Fiji out of the MSG in the same way it had been suspended from the Pacific Islands Forum.
He said Natapei has taken a divisive approach that does not reflect Melanesian values which emphasize dialogue.
Korman said it will be a miracle if Natapei can convince his Fiji counterpart to attend the Solomon Islands summit.
Prime Minister, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama confirmed to Fijivillage last week that Fiji will be handed the MSG Chairmanship this week after Vanuatu hands it to the Solomon Islands.
He said this is clearly a face-saving measure for Natapei who refused to hand the Chairmanship to Fiji in July.
Meanwhile the Solomon Islands Foreign Affairs Ministry said they will abide by the communiqué reached in New York whereby the Chairmanship of the MSG will be handed over to Fiji this week.
Speaking to Fijivillage from Honiara, Solomons Assistant Secretary of Pacific Affairs, John Wasi said there has been no change to the decision reached in New York.
Wasi said a reconciliation ceremony will also take place before the MSG meeting starts.
Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama will not attend the meeting in Honiara this week however Foreign Minister, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola will represent Fiji.
Story by: Vijay Narayan and Ana Naisoro
Vanuatu Politian accuses Natapei of causing division in MSG
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