Senate, in a special session yesterday, approved the appointment of Gaafar Uherbelau as Minister of Health and Human Services unanimously in a 12 to 0 vote. One senator was absent, but the 12 present all voted for Mr. Uherbelau to be the next Minister of Health and Human Services, formerly the Ministry of Health.
Mr. Uherbelau was nominated to head the ministry that plays the most crucial role in keeping Palau safe from the COVID-19 virus.
Uherbelau was nominated by President Surangel Whipps Jr. last month to lead the Ministry of Health and Human Services, one of the largest ministries in his cabinet.
In his nomination, President Whipps endorsed Uherbelau, saying he “has the leadership experience and dedication to serve and foster a successful Ministry, especially during these unprecedented times with the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Two of Palau’s preeminent doctors, Dr. Victor Yano and Dr. Emais Roberts, wrote letters to the Senate Committee supporting Uherbelau’s nomination to head the Ministry of Health and Human Services.
With the Senate’s approval of Gaafar Uherbelau’s nomination, President Whipps now has a complete cabinet of mostly young technocrats.