Overview:
Marie A. Nabeyama was selected as Speaker of the Legislature, becoming the first woman to hold the position in Koror State’s history. Her selection follows a landmark election that also saw five women elected to the Koror State Legislature for the first time.
By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau — The 13th Koror State Legislature marked a historic milestone for the state government after the organization of its 13th Legislature.
Legislator Marie A. Nabeyama was selected as Speaker of the Legislature, becoming the first woman to hold the position in Koror State’s history. Her selection follows a landmark election that also saw five women elected to the Koror State Legislature for the first time.
“I am humbled and honored and will do my best to represent the people of Koror State in the 13th Koror State Legislature,” Nabeyama said following her selection.
Koror State, the most populous state in Palau, has been a trend-setter for the rest of the states in elections over the past decades. The new Koror state legislature leadership will be watched by other states as they gear up for their own elections.
At-large members of the newly seated Koror State legislature are Nabeyama, Kyronori Tellames, Jason R. Nolan, Millan Isack, and L. Tangesechel Mariur.
District representatives include Tito Ringang of Ngermid, Polycarp Marcil of Ngerkesoal, Job R. Kikuo of Ngerchemai, Devon T. Andreas of Iyebukel, Ltelatk H. Fritz of Meketii, Shannon T. Etpison of Dngeronger, Olkeriil J. Yaoch of Idid, Richard Alonz of Ikelau, Alonz Moses of Ngerbeched, Jennifer Akiwo of Medalaii, Sarah L. Sugiyama of Meyuns, and Rhinehart Silas of Ngerkebesang.
Kikuo was selected to serve as vice speaker, while Silas was named floor leader.
During the ceremony, all members were formally sworn into office and assumed their legislative responsibilities for the new term.