Overview:
Ngaraard’s four gubernatorial contenders — including the incumbent and a former governor — faced their voters in an open forum on October 25, discussing key issues such as leadership unity, housing, and the TACMOR project. All four are running as write-in candidates in the upcoming state election.
By L.N. Reklai
NGARAARD, Palau — “We are here because we care about our state,” one candidate said, setting the tone as four contenders for Ngaraard’s governorship stood before their community in an open public forum last weekend.
The candidates — Hefflin Bai, Keizy Shiro, Governor Sharp Sakuma, and former Governor Benjamin Iskawa — faced questions from residents during a Question and Answer Forum hosted by the Palau Media Council on October 25 at the Ngaraard State Office.
All four are running as write-in candidates, after missing the official nominating petition deadline. Their names will not appear on the ballot in the Ngaraard State General Election, which is set for three weeks from now.
During the forum, the contenders spoke candidly about a range of issues affecting the state, from leadership unity and environmental protection to housing and economic opportunities.
Questions from the audience and moderators challenged the candidates to demonstrate not only their understanding of state matters but also their ability to find practical solutions.
Among the key issues raised were how each candidate plans to strengthen cooperation among traditional and elected leaders, increase access to housing and land development, and address environmental concerns linked to the U.S. Tactical Mobile Over-the-Horizon Radar (TACMOR) project. Candidates were asked to outline how they would both mitigate its impacts and ensure benefits to the community.
Each contender responded confidently, presenting their views and priorities. The audience listened closely as the candidates described their visions for Ngaraard’s future.
Despite their differing approaches, all four expressed pride in their state and their shared desire to serve its people.
The event’s master of ceremonies, former delegate Steven Kanai, reminded the audience of Ngaraard’s state motto — “Five for All, and All for One” — saying it reflected the candidates’ shared commitment to serve all five hamlets of Ngaraard as one community.