Snap elections in 2022 resulted in a fragmented parliament again. The 52-member legislature comprises 17 parties (down from 19 elected in 2020). One woman was elected for the first time since 2012. The Vanua'aku Pati (VP) led by Prime Minister Bob Loughman) and the Union of Moderate Parties (UMP, led by former Attorney General Ishmael Kalsakau) both came first, winning seven seats. 

On 4 November, Parliament held its first session. Mr. Simeon Davidson Seoule (Laverwo Movement), who was supported by the UMP and its allies, was re-elected as Speaker. He defeated Mr. Ulrich Sumptoh of the Reunification Movement for Change (RMC), who was endorsed by Prime Minister Loughman. Mr. Loughman announced that his camp would not nominate a premiership candidate, but would instead support Mr. Kalsakau (UMP). Parliament then elected Mr. Kalsakau as the new Prime Minister with 50 votes. He had announced a 10-party coalition government (c.f., names of parties in government). The sole woman MP, Ms. Gloria Julia King, became the third Deputy Speaker.

The 2022 elections were held over a year earlier than they were constitutionally due (see note). On 18 August, the eve of a no confidence motion against the then Prime Minister Loughman, Parliament was dissolved by President Nikenike Vurobaravu (VP, elected by Parliament in July 2022). Earlier, the government (under the then Vanuatu President Tallis Obed Moses) announced agreements with China, deepening their economic ties. 

Note:
In Vanuatu, a parliament’s term lasts for four years from the date of its election. The outgoing legislature, elected on 19 March 2020, was to sit until March 2024. General elections are held no earlier than 30 days and no later than 60 days after any dissolution of parliament. Elections were thus due between April and May 2024.