By: Eustoria Marie Borja

KOROR, Palau – The 2024 Congressional Forum for Palau’s House of Delegates, intended as a key platform for voters to engage with candidates and understand their legislative priorities, was notably impacted by the withdrawal of several Airai State candidates and the absence of House members.

Organized by the Palau Entrepreneurs for Growth (PEFG) and the Palau Media Council, the October 9 event aimed to give voters a clear understanding of the policies and priorities of candidates running for the House of Delegates. However, several Airai State delegate candidates opted not to participate. In a joint letter dated September 29, Williander “Wandei” Ngotel, Ralph Kanai, Stephanie Ngirchoimei, and Reagan Sidoi informed organizers Ongerung Kambes Kesolei and Irene Olkeriil of their decision to withdraw, citing a separate debate they had already held for Airai constituents. They expressed their appreciation but felt further participation in the forum was unnecessary.

Their withdrawal, along with the illness of three other candidates who were unable to attend, significantly diminished the scope of the forum. This reduction in participation hindered voters’ ability to hear from a full slate of candidates on key legislative priorities.

Wilbert Ngirakamerang, Ngaraard State candidate, also declined to attend, citing pre-existing travel plans in a letter dated September 30. He, too, thanked the organizers but expressed regret at missing the opportunity to engage with voters at the forum.

Adding to the challenges, House Speaker Sabino Anastacio, in a letter dated October 3, explained that neither he nor other members of the House could attend due to legislative duties and prior commitments. While recognizing the value of public dialogue, the House members’ absence further limited the breadth of the discussion.

The Congressional Forum proceeded with the candidates present, but the absence of prominent figures weakened its impact. The forum’s primary purpose was to help voters understand where candidates stand on critical national and state issues. When candidates opt out of such dialogues, it undermines the public’s ability to make informed decisions.

Public engagement in these forums plays a vital role in a healthy democracy, providing transparency and accountability. By withdrawing, these candidates missed a key opportunity to directly communicate their legislative priorities to voters. This absence of dialogue may leave constituents uncertain about the policies these candidates will champion if elected.

As Palau heads toward the General Election in November, the lack of participation in public forums raises concerns about how well voters can assess candidates. In a democracy, direct engagement with voters is essential, and candidates who decline to participate in such forums may miss the chance to build trust and clearly outline their vision for the future.

The Palau Entrepreneurs for Growth (PEFG) has not yet commented on the effect these withdrawals had on the event, but voter engagement and transparency will likely be key considerations as Palau’s electorate moves toward the upcoming elections.