KOROR, Palau – The Koror State Legislature’s power dynamics changed last week with the adoption of a Resolution 12-35, that removed significant powers of the Speaker in the management of the State Legislature. The resolution, adopted by nine (9) legislators, changed the rules of procedure, altering the balance of power within the body.
The Koror State Legislature Rules of Procedure give the Speaker significant powers, including appointing the chairman, vice chairman, and committee members and serving as the Contracting Officer.
The resolution, introduced by the majority of members present at a session, amended the Rules and Procedures, Rule 5 (F), allowing the majority of the members to appoint chairs, vice chairs, and members of standing and special committees. Additionally, the resolution designated the Vice Speaker, instead of the Speaker, as the Contracting Officer for legislative operating expenses (amended Rule 2(B)). The Floor Leader would assume these duties in the Vice Speaker’s absence.
In addition, the nine members of the Koror State Legislature adopted Resolution 12-34, removing Legislator Rhinehart Silas as the Chairman of the Ways & Means Committee and appointing Legislator Devon Andreas as the new Chairman of Ways & Means. The resolutions come amidst ongoing debate over the 2024 Interim Budget of Koror State.
The nine members comprise the majority of the Koror State Legislature including Vice Speaker Uchel Sechewas, Floor Leader Marie Anderson Nabeyama, Legislator Tito Ringang, Legislator Job Kikuo, Legislator Francisco Ueki, Legislator R. Eledui Omelau, Legislator Devon Andreas, Legislator Alonz Moses and Legislator Edwenor Sadang.
The resolution represents a significant shift in the Legislature’s internal dynamics, removing substantial powers of the Speaker and changing the way the legislature business is conducted.