By: Eustoria Marie Borja
Republic of Palau – Ngchesar State commemorates its 42nd. Constitution Day today, Friday, September 13, 2024. The state, which operates under the Constitution of the Republic of Palau and its own state constitution, is marking more than four decades of organized governance since ratifying its constitution on January 12, 1982
Under Article XI, Section 1 of the national constitution and the state constitution, Ngchesar State is structured with three primary branches: The Head of State (Ngirakebou), the State Council, and the Governor. Ngirakebou, who is the chief of Ngchesar Hamlet, serves as the Head of State, deriving his authority from Article V, Section 1 of Palau’s constitution and Ngchesar’s customs and traditions.
The 17-member Ngchesar State Council, which holds both legislative and executive powers, is composed of Ngirakebou, Rechesengel from the Ngara-Oldiang organization, and Rechetuker from the Ngara-Tmachel organization, five Hamlet Chiefs each drawn from the first clan of the five hamlets of Ngchesar, and nine elected members. These members are responsible for guiding the state’s legislative and executive actions, ensuring a balance of traditional leadership and elected representation.
The Governor of Ngchesar is selected from among the elected members of the council for a four-year term, with a limit of two consecutive terms. The Governor oversees the administration of the state, implementing laws and policies decided by the council. Legislative authority lies with the council, which can only pass laws through formal bills.
Ngchesar’s Constitution Day is a reminder of the state’s commitment to its governance system, blending the customs and traditions of the people with the formal structures established by its constitution