Former Vanuatu Prime Minister Joe Natuman Photo: RNZI / Kim Baker-Wilson
Vanuatu's Electoral Commission has rejected an application by former Prime Minister Joe Natuman to contest this month's general election.
The Vanuatu Daily Post reports the Commission rejected the former president of the Vanuaaku Pati due to his guilty plea in a high profile conspiracy case.
Meanwhile two other former Prime Ministers - Pentecost candidate, Ham Lini of the National United Party and Malekula candidate Sato Kilman of the People's Progressive Party - have both qualified to contest.
The names of over 230 candidates have been approved to contest the election.