Vanuatu will not undo Andrew Tate’s citizenship, as the original process was deemed valid after a comprehensive government review. This decision signifies that the controversial influencer will retain his status as a Vanuatu national, despite widespread calls for its revocation in light of his legal issues. The government’s stance is rooted in the legality of the original grant.
Government spokesperson Kiery Manassah stated that the citizenship office conducted a detailed examination of Tate’s records. He confirmed that all necessary clearances, including those from Interpol and the UK, were obtained prior to his citizenship being granted, indicating compliance with the existing regulations.
Manassah admitted that the government regrets not being fully informed about the allegations against Tate when he first applied, acknowledging that such knowledge would have led to a different outcome. However, he reiterated that current legal frameworks do not permit retroactive revocation based on new information discovered later.
The controversy surrounding Tate’s citizenship has highlighted vulnerabilities in Vanuatu’s citizenship-by-investment program. In response, the government has pledged to implement stricter due diligence measures to prevent similar occurrences and to enhance the program’s reputation, which Manassah admitted has suffered internationally.