Peleliu State voters will have the opportunity to amend their constitution alongside electing a governor and legislators in the 15th General Election, scheduled for December 3, 2024.
Among the proposed amendments are changes to the size and composition of the legislature, the role of the state’s traditional chiefs, and regulations regarding military facilities on the island. The amendments aim to restructure legislative representation and redefine the powers of local leaders.
One significant proposal is to amend Article VIII, Section 1, which would reduce the number of legislators from 15 to 11. Under the current constitution, the legislature includes 15 members: five elected at large, five from each of the five hamlets, and five chiefs representing these hamlets. The proposed amendment would eliminate the chiefs’ seats, shifting to six at-large members and five representatives from each hamlet.
If adopted, this change would take effect immediately, creating an additional at-large seat to be filled by the highest-voted candidate at-large not in the top five.
Another amendment targets Article VIII, Section 3, redefining the role of the chiefs to serve strictly as advisors to the governor. The current language only restricts the chiefs from holding elected office, whereas the proposed amendment would more clearly define an advisory role.
A third amendment involves Article XI, Section 6, giving the governor authority to negotiate with the military regarding any proposed bases, facilities, or activities, subject to legislative approval. Presently, Article VIII, Section 6, requires a public vote, with a 75% majority, to permit any military-related construction or training in Peleliu.
For this election cycle, only one candidate, incumbent Governor Dr. Emais Roberts, is running for governor. Twelve candidates are contesting the five at-large legislative seats.
The general election will take place on December 3, 2024.