Overview:
The newly elected 12th Assembly of Ngaraard State Olbetibel has set a clear tone for unity and cooperation, formally signing a Memorandum of Agreement pledging to govern as one team. The pact commits state leaders to transparency, accountability and collective action aimed at advancing the social, economic, cultural and environmental well-being of Ngaraard residents.
By: Laurel Mariwebuel
NGEBUKED, Ngaraard State (January 16, 2026)— Members of the 12th Assembly of Ngaraard State Olbetibel signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Jan. 13, 2026, pledging to work as a united team for the common good, welfare and development of state residents.
The pact, entered into by the newly elected presiding officers and legislators, commits signers to unity, cooperation and mutual respect. They agreed to set aside personal interests, support shared goals, work closely with the House of Chiefs and the governor’s office, promote good governance, transparency and accountability, and advance social, economic, cultural and environmental priorities. The group also vowed not to withdraw or act against the team during their term without mutual consent.
Presiding Officers
• Speaker: Ms. Marcy Andrew
• Vice Speaker: Mr. Duane Tochi
• Floor Leader: Mr. George Matsuda
Members
• Leon Debengek, Ngkeklau County
• Gibson Kanai Jr., at-large
• John Temengil, at-large
• Harvey Ngirairikl, Elab County
• Ngitong Osubdereng, Ulimang County
• Saburo Remoket, Choll County
Committee decisions will be communicated to the public through hearings, the MOA states.
Committee Assignments
Resource and Economic Development
• Chairman: Harvey Ngirairikl
• Vice Chairman: Duane Tochi
• Members: John Temengil, Saburo Remoket, Gibson Kanai Jr.
Youth, Social, Tourism and Cultural Affairs
• Chairman: Gibson Kanai Jr.
• Vice Chairman: John Temengil
• Members: Saburo Remoket, Leon Debengek, George Matsuda
Capitol Improvement Project (CIP)
• Chairman: Ngitong Osubdereng
• Vice Chairman: George Matsuda
• Members: Duane Tochi, Leon Debengek, Gibson Kanai Jr.
Ways and Means
• Chairman: Leon Debengek
• Vice Chairman: Saburo Remoket
• Members: George Matsuda, Ngitong Osubdereng, Harvey Ngirairikl
Judiciary & Governmental Affairs
• Chairman: John Temengil
• Vice Chairman: Harvey Ngirairikl
• Members: George Matsuda, Duane Tochi, Leon Debengek
Health, Education & Welfare
• Chairman: Saburo Remoket
• Vice Chairman: Gibson Kanai Jr.
• Members: Ngitong Osubdereng, Duane Tochi, George Matsuda