Overview:
Angaur’s Nov. 3 gubernatorial election will feature a rematch between incumbent Gov. Kennosuke A. Suzuki and challenger Warren Fukuichi, while Ngatpang’s Miwa “Tant” Nabeyama is set to run unopposed in the Dec. 10 election. Meanwhile, Angaur voters will also choose five state legislators, and Ngatpang is still accepting legislative candidates. What should voters know ahead of the two state elections?
By Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau — The field of candidates is set for two upcoming state general elections in Palau, with Angaur State featuring a rematch of former contenders and Ngatpang State seeing a single candidate run unopposed.
In Angaur State, voters will choose between incumbent Gov. Kennosuke A. Suzuki and challenger Warren Fukuichi in the Nov. 3 general election. Both candidates previously competed for the same office. According to the Palau Election Commission, Angaur law requires a primary election if more than two candidates file for governor. Although a primary was tentatively scheduled for Sept. 8, none was necessary because only Suzuki and Fukuichi filed.
Ten candidates are competing for five at-large seats in the Angaur State Legislature: Gene F. Larson, Marvin Ngirutang, Arkagius Yamada, Jake Ramon, Helena Gulibert, Audry Rafael, Arnold Asao, Ethel Arurang, Micheal Erik Vereen and Olkeriil Kazuo. The 5-member elected legislature serves alongside four traditional chiefs.
In Ngatpang State, Miwa “Tant” Nabeyama is running unopposed for governor after emerging as the sole candidate to file nominating petitions by the deadline. With the filing window closed, any additional contenders would have to run as write-in candidates.
Because Nabeyama is uncontested, no primary election will be held. Voters will cast their ballots in the Ngatpang general election on Dec. 10.
Nominating petitions for seats in the Ngatpang Legislature remain open, with the election commission accepting filings until Nov. 10.