By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau — Koror Governor Eyos Rudimch formally announced his bid for a second term during a gathering with family and supporters on April 28 at Siangel, M-Dock.
Rudimch said he is seeking re-election because many important initiatives remain unfinished. He noted that 1,200 days — roughly 40 months — in office were not enough to complete the work he started.
Elected in 2021, Rudimch said he assumed office during a challenging period, immediately following the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Koror State Government faced significant financial difficulties.
At the time, Rudimch said, the state government held approximately $14.4 million in reserves, with an annual budget of about $9 million. “I promised we would accomplish many things, but due to financial constraints, we were unable to achieve everything we set out to do. However, we have made gradual progress,” Rudimch said.
Citing financial reports, Rudimch said Koror State recorded $5.8 million in total income in 2022, while expenses reached $9.5 million, resulting in a $3.6 million deficit. Retained earnings from previous years left the state with $10.7 million in cash and cash equivalents by the end of the year.
Of the $9.5 million in expenditures, Rudimch reported that $2 million was paid out for employee overtime. To address this financial drain, he said, his administration introduced a biometric system to monitor employees’ hours worked.
Rudimch also hired an independent auditor to assess the state’s finances, leading to the implementation of several cost-cutting measures — some of which he acknowledged were unpopular.
Speaking to his extended family, Rudimch said he had done his best under the circumstances and believes another term would allow him to complete key programs, including the digitization of most state services. He said the digitization project is expected to finish this year and will help improve services such as permitting processes.
He assured his family and supporters that he would continue working with legislators, traditional leaders and community organizations to advance the best interests of Koror State and its people.
Koror State will hold its 13th General Election in November 2025. As of July 15, 2024, Koror State had 5,868 registered voters — the largest voter base in Palau. Rudimch is the first candidate to announce his candidacy.