Major constitutional changes which had been scheduled for debate in Vanuatu's parliament this month have been withdrawn.
Vanuatu's new parliament sits to elect a prime minister, 11 February 2016. Photo: Television Blong Vanuatu
The changes include creating reserved parliamentary seats for women, regulation of political parties and candidates, as well as changes affecting the life of a parliament and the powers of MPs to dissolve the legislature.
Vanuatu's main political parties have been meeting to review the package of amendments that was due to go before parliament.
They have reportedly decided that more consideration and negotiation is needed before the amendments can go to parliament, where a two-thirds majority support would be needed to pass any changes.
Additionally, major constitutional amendments would have to go to a public referendum.
Since coming to power in February, the government of Charlot Salwai has expressed its aim to bring about political reform that can address the chronic political instability which has hampered Vanuatu for years.
It is also keen to introduce provisions for the independence of leading public positions.
