By: L.N. Reklai Koror, PALAU (January 9, 2026) — President Surangel Whipps Jr. has issued a new executive directive establishing procedures to assess persecution risks before removing certain foreign nationals from Palau, a move that responds to growing concerns over third-country nationals transferred from the United States — but one that also raises unresolved legal, […]
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Angaur Voters Remove Governor Natus Misech in Recall Election
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 […]
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Jackson Doktok Chosen as Ngchesar Governor in Unanimous Council Vote
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang NGCHESAR, Palau (January 9, 2026) — Newly sworn-in council members of Ngchesar State on Wednesday elected Jackson “Olato” Doktok as governor during an installation session held at the Ngchesar state office, marking the formation of the state’s new government. Jackson “Olato” Doktok elected governor of Ngchesar State. (Photo credit: PVA) The […]
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Palau Tourism Rebounds Sharply in 2025, Sets Stage for Further Growth in 2026
By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau (January 9, 2026) — Palau’s tourism industry posted a strong, broad-based recovery in 2025, with international arrivals climbing sharply across Asia, North America and Europe, supported by expanded air links and longer visitor stays that position the destination for further gains in 2026. From January through November 2025, Palau recorded […]
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New Law Eases Bonding Requirements for Palauan-Owned Construction Firms
By: L.N. Reklai Koror, PALAU (Jan. 6, 2026) — “We need to reform our policies to help Palauans,” President Surangel Whipps Jr. said as he signed a new law easing government bonding requirements, a move expected to expand access to public construction projects for local companies. The measure, RPPL 12-4, updates procurement rules that had […]
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Escaped inmate recaptured as prison safety concerns grow in Palau
By: Summer Kennard KOROR, Palau — An inmate who escaped from custody late last month has been recaptured, but the incident has renewed public concern over safety and security inside Palau’s correctional facilities, particularly in light of other recent incidents, including the death of an inmate who was allegedly set on fire. Minister of Justice […]