Bohn has given the CEO title of Union Bay Industries to Mike Butler who also tried his hand in a variety of areas. Clings to every politician available to get pics with them, creating the impression of credibility. Has run for different positions like mayor of Edmonton, changed parties and now promoting crazy ‘concepts’ like building submarines in Union Bay FFS. The failed vertical Funky Banana Farm in Qualicum is a good example of Mike’s abilities.

https://www.dailypost.vu/news/new-special-envoy-responds-to-conflict-of-interest-claims/article_968de998-db90-508a-9de1-9e3f864c3e89.html

New Special Envoy Responds to Conflict of Interest Claims

Newly appointed Special Envoy to International Maritime and Shipping Affairs, Robert Bohn, has responded to the Opposition’s claim regarding his new appointment, stating that it is not a conflict of interest but rather a simple attempt to confuse the public.

Robert Bohn was appointed as the Special Envoy for the Republic of Vanuatu to International Maritime and Shipping Affairs by the new Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marc Ati, on the 7th of September 2023.

His appointment letter stated that his appointment was mandated by Section 29 of the Foreign Service Act No. 20 of 2013, and his role is to promote Vanuatu’s interests on expansion of national maritime and shipping and identify solutions to enable the implementation of maritime policies, which, inter alia, includes strengthening national competence on the international maritime sector and shipping services.

However, the leader of the Opposition side, Charlot Salwai, has alleged that his appointment raises questions about potential conflicts of interest within the role, since Mr. Bohn is a member of the Vanuatu Maritime Services Limited (VMSL).

“It is a conflict of interest since Mr. Bohn is a member and as well as the Assistant Commissioner of VMSL,” Mr. Salwai said.

Mr. Bohn stated that it is true that he has investments in the maritime industry he could potentially have a conflict in any one discussion but it is highly unlikely that he would have a conflict in every discussion of the maritime industry.

“I will be resigning my Directorships in active maritime businesses and my investments are already held in Trust for my family. In the future my investments will be held in blind trust where I will not take an active part,” he stated.

“I have held business interests in Vanuatu for 44 years and I have been a citizen for 25 years. Most importantly I was a Member of Parliament from Epi Island and for a short period of time I was the Minister of Justice.

“Never once did I abuse my powers or authorities for my personal benefit or gain.”

He added that he has consistently donated his salaries, allocations, and stipends back to the people. Additionally, in collaboration with Member of Parliament (MP) John Nil, he is actively involved in the construction of two dispensaries on the island of Epi, with four more in the planning stages.

Mr. Bohn continues to state that with regard to maritime matters, he has acted as a Deputy Commissioner of Maritime Affairs (now called Associate Commissioner) for 30 years.

“At all times I have managed to keep my statutory responsibilities separate from the government business side of running the Vanuatu International Shipping Registry (VISR) and certainly separate from my personal investments.

“My record of public service is exemplary but should I ever find myself in a possible conflict I will immediately declare a possible conflict and recuse myself from that discussion.

“Can a recent Minister say the same thing when he made a political appointment of a Political Advisor who has no maritime experience, nor any experience with a UN agency? Would a political appointee with zero experience be considered an example of an actual conflict?” he questioned.

With his appointment, Mr. Bohn was also issued a Diplomatic passport, recommended by Mr. Esron Mark Vano, Chief of Protocol and Consular Division within the Department of Foreign Affairs International Cooperation and External Trade.

doddy@dailypost.vu