Overview:
Angaur voters have recalled Gov. Natus Misech after a recall election cleared the two-thirds legal threshold required under state law. With 101 votes in favor of removal, the result sets the stage for a vacancy and a new gubernatorial election, pending certification by the Palau Election Commission.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
ANGAUR, Palau (January 9, 2026) — Angaur Gov. Natus Misech was recalled from office Wednesday after voters approved a gubernatorial recall election by a margin that exceeded the legal threshold required under state law.
Election officials said 137 of the state’s 470 registered voters participated in the recall, casting ballots on whether Misech should be removed from office. Voters were asked: “Do you agree that Governor Natus Misech shall be recalled or removed from the Office of Governor of Angaur State?”
Of the ballots cast, 101 voters supported recalling the governor, while 36 voted against the move.
Two polling venues were established — a central polling station in Koror and a proper polling site in Angaur. The Koror station recorded 89 ballots, with 71 votes in favor of recall and 18 opposed. The Angaur polling site recorded 48 ballots, including 30 votes for recall and 18 against.
Under Angaur state law, a gubernatorial recall requires approval by two-thirds of the votes cast. With 137 ballots submitted, at least 92 votes were needed for the recall to take effect. The 101 votes in favor met and surpassed that requirement.
Once the Palau Election Commission formally certifies the results, the Office of the Governor of Angaur State will be declared vacant, triggering a special election to select Misech’s successor.
Officials said there has been discussion of a potential legal challenge to the recall, with claims that the process may be unconstitutional or not in compliance with the Angaur State Constitution. No formal challenge has been filed as of Wednesday.