Vanuatu polls open for record number of voters
Updated
Vanuatu's general election has begun, with a record number of candidates and an expected high turnout of voters.
The government has declared the day a public holiday, putting a 24-hour ban on alcohol consumption across the country.
A total of 341 candidates are competing for seats in the 52-member parliament.
Nearly four years ago, at Vanuatu's last election, there were just 100 candidates.
Former teacher and carpenter, Ham Lini, was elected prime minister in December 2004 and his National United Party currently holds 10 seats in the parliament.
