The prime minister of Vanuatu is the head of government of the Republic of Vanuatu. The office of Prime Minister was created under the Constitution of Vanuatu upon the country's independence in 1980, with independence campaigner Walter Lini becoming the first office-holder. The position is sometimes seen as a continuation of the older office of Chief Minister, which existed before Vanuatu obtained its independence. The prime minister is required by the Constitution to be a member of Parliament, which also directly elects him or her into office. The prime minister directly appoints or dismisses members of the Council of Ministers (cabinet ministers).