With nearly five months until Palau’s significant national election, the usual flurry of candidate announcements is conspicuously absent. Apart from a few contenders for the Office of the President, which is also notably quieter compared to previous elections, there is a distinct lack of enthusiasm for positions in the House of Delegates and Senate.
Historically, by this time, the roads from Koror to Ngarchelong and other states would be lined with colorful signboards promoting candidates. This year, however, only a handful of signs for presidential and vice-presidential candidates are visible, leaving the streets unusually clean and devoid of campaign materials.
In the 16 states, only two have seen potential challengers for delegate seats. Most incumbent delegates and senators have not publicly announced their candidacies, although their actions suggest they plan to retain their seats. Of the 13 senators, only two new candidates, Ann Singeo and Vierra Toribiong, have expressed intentions to run.
Why is there such a low expression of interest compared to the elections in 2020, 2016, or 2012? In 2020, there were 26 candidates for the 13 Senate seats, double the number of available seats. Now, only two additional candidates have emerged.
Speculation is rampant. Some potential candidates have said they are waiting to declare their intentions, although they have not explained why, claiming it is too early.
Conversations with various individuals, including former office holders and interested parties, suggest several reasons. Some are too busy rebuilding their lives or believe running would be futile due to the entrenched hierarchy in the House of Delegates and the Senate. Others suggest there simply aren’t enough capable people willing to run, resulting in a system recycling the same individuals and fostering voter apathy.
Another theory is that potential candidates are waiting until the last minute to avoid addressing current, complex issues they find difficult to articulate to constituents.
A common concern among potential candidates is the high cost of campaigning. One interested contender mentioned he cannot afford a campaign, claiming, “Only incumbents can run for office because they have government funds they can use under the guise of work. We can’t compete with that.”
Regardless of the reasons, the lack of declared candidates means voters may not know who they are voting for or what these candidates stand for on important issues. The upcoming 2024 General Election risks becoming a popularity contest based on current status, family connections, and alignment with presidential candidates.
Have mercy!
Palau’s 2024 Election: Apathy,Ignorance, or Shortage of Candidates?
