Overview:
Angaur Gov. Steven R. Salii in a press statement on Feb 16 questions several expenditures, urging the Olbiil Era Ngeaur to address its constitutional responsibilities and provide clear answers to the people of Angaur.
Date: February 16, 2026
The Office of the Governor of Angaur State reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accountability, and constitutional principles. Governor Steven R. Salii has respectfully raised concerns regarding several financial matters that require public clarity. These concerns are not intended to diminish the service of any individual, but to ensure that truth remains clear, undistorted, and openly shared w1th our citizens, who have a right to know.
Use of Japanese Grassroots Funds
During the last term, Angaur State did not receive the national block grant for the Fourth Quarter of Fiscal Year 2024. This shortfall was due in part to decisions by the Olbiil Era Ngeaur (OEN), including salary increases for its members without securing funds to cover them. To sustain operations for the people of Angaur, the State Government was compelled to draw upon funds reserved for the purchase of a boat through Japan’s grassroots assistance program. Although 50% of the adjusted price was paid to the local vendor, the remaining balance could not be secured. Requests for additional assistance to then Ambassador Orikasa, Government of Japan was not honored. Subsequent efforts by the national government to supplement the shortfall through other funding sources were blocked by the same then- Japan Ambassador Orikasa. This situation underscores the importance of accountability in financial planning and respect for designated aid programs.
Five Questionable Expenditures
1. Monkey Eradication Funds
* $25,000 allocated for monkey eradication was directed by OEN to be of the OEN to be administered by Mr. Warren Fukuichi, while he was a sitting member of the OEN.
* The dual role raises concerns of conflict of interest and accountability gaps.
2. OEN Vehicle Sale Proceeds
* Proceeds from the sale of a government-owned vehicle under the leadership of then OEN President Mr. Arkasius Yamada were not documented and funds were not deposited into the Angaur State Treasury as required.
* The absence of documentation raises questions about transparency and fiduciary responsibility.
3. Missing $100,000 from Bank of Hawaii Accounts
* Two OEN resolutions directed investigations into the disappearance of over $100,000 from closed Bank of Hawaii accounts under the administration of former Governor Mr. Kenozky Suzuky.
* The unresolved status of this unaccounted funds leaves serious concerns of potential fraud, money laundering, and/or embezzlement.
4. Wire Transfers to U.S. Shipyard
* Two wire transfers totaling over $300,000 were sent from Angaur State Government to a shipyard company in the United States.
*The absence of clear justification raises serious concerns about legality, procurement compliance, and fiduciary responsibility.
5. Compensation of RENGUUL Stacy Augustine,
RENGUUL Stacy Augustine, a sitting and approved Ngebeyanged Chief-Member of the OEN, was not compensated from February 2025 until part of January 2026.
• This raises concerns of fairness, governance integrity, and impartial service.
Governor Salii emphasizes:
Accountability and genuine public service are the foundations that strengthen the trust of our people and ensure that the Constitution of Angaur is faithfully upheld. True leadership demands accountability anchored in integrity, faithful to the constitutional oath, and dedicated to safeguarding the community we all depend upon.
The Governor respectfully calls upon the Olbiil Era Ngeaur to clarify how it is ensuring its responsibilities under the Angaur State Constitution, specifically Article VII (Distribution of Power) and Article VIII, Section 12 (Compensation of OEN Members).