By: Eustoria Marie Borja
NGARDMAU STATE — Blesoch Aderkeroi, a former Governor of Ngardmau State, has won the second runoff election for the House of Delegate seat for Ngardmau in the 12th Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK), defeating Fermin R. Meriang by a margin of 17 votes. The second runoff election, held on January 8, 2025, at the Election Commission Office, drew a total voter turnout of 469.
According to unofficial results released by the Election Commission, Aderkeroi secured 137 votes, while Meriang garnered 120. Voting took place across the central and proper polling districts, where Aderkeroi led with 64 and 73 votes, respectively. No absentee ballots will be recorded this time, and there were no blank or rejected votes.
This result concludes one of the closest electoral contests in Palau’s history, which began during the November 5 General Election, when Aderkeroi initially led by just one vote, 101 to 100. A recount, requested by Meriang, included previously excluded write-in votes, resulting in the first tie. On December 3, 2024, the first runoff election was held but ended in another tie, with both candidates receiving 135 votes each.
After the first runoff, a second runoff was scheduled for December 8, but it was canceled a day before the election when the Attorney General halted the process, and the matter was referred to the OEK to amend the law.
The second runoff on January 8 broke the deadlock, and Aderkeroi’s win brings closure to this tightly contested race. As a former Governor of Ngardmau State, Aderkeroi brings significant leadership experience to his new role as delegate. His upcoming term is expected to focus on key priorities such as economic development, infrastructure improvement, and strengthening community welfare.
According to Palau Election Commission Director Sherwin Yamaguchi, “The certification of the results will be finalized before the 12th OEK inauguration as intended when the OEK amended the law in hopes that the delegate of Ngardmau will be able to join them on January 16, 2025.”
Once the results have been certified by the Palau Election Commission (PEC), Aderkeroi will officially represent Ngardmau State in the 12th OEK, concluding one of the closest and most prolonged electoral contests in history. His leadership experience as a former governor is expected to play a key role in shaping policies for Ngardmau and Palau.