Oxfam apologises to Government and public over ‘Sun Tax’ miscommunication
May 14, 2025 10:03 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
Compiled by Doddy Morris.
Oxfam in Vanuatu has issued a formal apology to the Government and people of Vanuatu following public criticism over a recent social media post that inaccurately described a proposed legislative change as a “Sun Tax.”
In a statement released yesterday, Oxfam acknowledged that its communication regarding a consultation meeting scheduled for 7 May 2025—intended to involve the Utilities Regulatory Authority (URA), Vanuatu Association of NGOs (VANGO), and Sista—had mistakenly linked the gathering to a constitutional amendment and claimed that the proposed changes would result in grassroots families being taxed for using solar energy.
“This information was incorrect,” Oxfam stated, adding that the post was deleted on 8 May to prevent further confusion. “Oxfam takes full responsibility for the error and reaffirms its respect for Vanuatu’s Constitution and governance processes.”
The apology comes amid mounting pressure from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, which last week threatened to de-register the international Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) for what it described as “repeated interference in internal politics,” including the circulation of false information and previous allegations involving the use of national symbols in sensitive contexts.
The Government had condemned Oxfam’s Facebook post as misleading and warned that its actions had contributed to public distrust and confusion about the URA amendment. Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Napuat said the incident violated the NGO Policy launched in 2018, which sets clear boundaries for NGO engagement in political and legislative matters.
In its statement, Oxfam also addressed renewed public attention on a past allegation involving the display of a rainbow flag next to the Vanuatu national flag—a move the Government previously criticised as inappropriate and culturally insensitive.
“Oxfam categorically states that it was not involved in the creation or distribution of such imagery,” the organisation said. “Although Oxfam supports inclusion through its programmes, it has done so with cultural sensitivity.”
The statement further emphasised that Oxfam’s mission is rooted in serving diverse communities across Vanuatu while operating within the bounds of national laws and the regulations governing registered charities.
“We hope to continue working, as we have done for many years, in close partnership with the Government of Vanuatu, civil society organisations, and local communities,” the statement read.
Oxfam also reaffirmed its long-term commitment to ending poverty and inequality through advocacy for “transparent, accountable and inclusive development.”
