The two candidates vying for the highest office in the 2020 General Election will face the press during an upcoming Presidential Forum this Thursday. The event will allow the media and the public to see where the two presidential candidates stand on issues affecting Palau.
Throughout the campaign run so far, both presidential candidates Surangel Whipps Jr. and Raynold “Arnold” Oilouch have made their presence known in many hosted town halls, radio, as well as social media on their stance about issues impacting Palau especially in the midst of the pandemic.
Vice President and Minister of Justice Arnold Oilouch’s in his messaging is putting emphasis on a “Ensuring stability” and a “Caring Government”.
His campaign also place emphasis on “Working Together” to bring opportunities to the people.
“We will work to improve our livelihoods not just by increasing salaries, but creating an environment that encourages strong families, comfortable homes, in clean and safe communities.” Said Oilouch.
Vice President and Minister of Justice Arnold Oilouch has been working for the government for over 10 years. He also has a private law firm.
As Vice President, he chairs the National Emergency Committee that oversees the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
While on the air with WWFM host Alfonso Diaz, Surangel Whipps Jr. says he believes in reforming the tax system which he said has an impact on food security and the economy of Palau.
“We need to reform our tax system to help promote local business” said Surangel.
Surangel Whipps Jr. is an established business man, has a formal background in economics, has served as the Senator for the OEK.
His campaign also places emphasis on strong family unit and improvement of social and health services among other policies. His campaign slogan is “Palauan People First or Kot a Rechad er Belau”.
Both candidates share many similar ideologies in their campaign platforms and had served together in the 9th OEK where they endorsed same policy ideas.
During the forum, questions will be asked of the presidential candidates on their stance and approaches to specific issues. Their responses will help public gain better understanding of the candidates and make decisions as informed voters.
This forum will also serve as part of the election reporting training for younger members of the media, to hone their craft and to contribute to election reporting in the future.
Although it is an event for the media, the forum will be streamed live for the public to see. This forum was organized by the Palau Media Council with the help of the Pacific Media Assistance Scheme.