By: Eustoria Marie Borja
NGERULMUD, Palau — Senator Mark U. Rudimch raised concerns about the role of volunteers in government operations during the second day of the 1st Special Session of the 12th Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK) on March 13, particularly questioning the status of the term “Minister in Waiting.”
During the session, Rudimch referenced a letter from the Palau Energy Water Administration (PEWA) to Senator Brian Melairei, which described Kaleb Udui Jr. as the “Minister in Waiting.” He pointed out that such a title does not officially exist in the government structure and cautioned against informal designations that could create ambiguity in official authority.
A central issue raised was whether the president or a minister has the authority to appoint volunteers within the government, granting them access to sensitive information without formal documentation. Rudimch urged the Senate Legal Counsel to conduct a legal review defining the scope and limitations of volunteers in government, warning of potential security risks.
“If we don’t regulate this, anyone could gain access to government information without oversight, much like cybersecurity threats,” Rudimch said.
The legal review will determine whether government offices can appoint volunteers, the level of access they may be granted, and whether existing practices need reform or should be discontinued.
Meanwhile, Udui’s appointment remains uncertain. Sixty days have passed since his nomination was submitted to the Senate, exceeding the deadline set by RPPL 11-29. Under the law, if the Senate does not act on a presidential appointment within 60 days, the nomination is considered withdrawn by the president. This means the Senate will not move forward with Udui’s confirmation unless President Surangel Whipps Jr. re-nominates him.
Additionally, the Senate recently rejected former Minister of Education Dr. Dale Jenkins’s appointment in a 7-6 vote, leaving three key ministries—the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Justice—without ministers. The Ministry of Justice remains without a nominee, as Whipps has yet to submit a name for consideration.