Why Is No One Acting?
The ongoing deadlock in electing a delegate for Ngardmau State is not a trivial issue. It’s a significant matter that strikes at the heart of Palau’s democratic principles, yet it seems to be met with alarming silence—no complaints, no solutions, no action. This silence is deafening.
The Palau Constitution mandates that each of the Republic’s 16 states elect a representative to the House of Delegates through popular vote. On November 5, the national election was held, but Ngardmau State’s delegate race ended in a tie. Two candidates received an equal number of votes, triggering a runoff election as required by 23 PNC Section 1551.
The first runoff election was held concurrently with Ngardmau’s state general election on December 3, but once again, the result was a tie. A second runoff was logically scheduled for December 11. However, at the last minute, it was halted due to an interpretation of the law, which stipulates that runoff elections must occur within 20 days of the vote certification. The Palau Election Commission was informed that it had no authority to conduct another runoff.
Since then, the people of Ngardmau have been left in limbo, repeatedly asking the same unanswered question: What happens now?
Who is responsible for resolving this issue and ensuring that the people of Ngardmau exercise their constitutional right to elect their delegate? Is it the Palau Election Commission, the Office of the Attorney General, the Olbiil Era Kelulau (Palau’s National Congress), or Ngardmau State leadership? Why hasn’t anyone stepped up to provide answers or a path forward?
Article IX, Section 3 of the Palau Constitution clearly states: “The House of Delegates shall be composed of one delegate to be popularly elected from each of the states of Palau.” Yet, Ngardmau currently has no representation, and the House of Delegates is left incomplete with only 15 members. Does this mean one of Palau’s 16 states can be effectively excluded through legal technicalities?
This situation sets a dangerous precedent. If left unresolved, it undermines the fundamental democratic right of Ngardmau’s people to representation. The silence from those in positions of authority is unacceptable. The people of Ngardmau deserve clear answers and decisive action to resolve this issue swiftly and fairly. (By: L.N. Reklai)