BY: Eustoria Marie Borja
Koror, Palau – The first of two senatorial candidate forums for the 2024 election took place at the Palau Community College (PCC) Assembly Hall on October 14, where eight candidates engaged in lively discussions about Palau’s most pressing issues. Organized by Irene Olkeriil and Kambes Kesolei, the forum featured five incumbent senators and three challengers. Moderated by Oneil Fisher and livestreamed by Eco Paradise, candidates shared their platforms, priorities, and visions for Palau’s future.
Economic Development, Healthcare, and Education
Incumbent Mark Rudimch opened the discussion by emphasizing the critical need for economic development, improved education, and accessible healthcare. He underscored the importance of environmental protection and called for transparency in governance, urging voters to closely scrutinize candidates’ principles and actions.
Secilil Eldebechel, also an incumbent, outlined his vision for achieving the “Palauan Dream,” which focuses on strengthening the economy and improving access to education and healthcare. He advocated for expanding the Health Care Fund (HCF) to include coverage for prescription drugs and chronic disease treatments, particularly for the elderly.
TJ Imrur Remengesau acknowledged the divisive nature of the recent tax law, stating that while tax reform was essential, the timing had not been ideal. He proposed adjustments to benefit more citizens and highlighted the need for greater support for technology, cybersecurity, and the preservation of Palauan culture and language.
Mason Whipps, another incumbent, emphasized workers’ rights, calling for legislation to protect overtime pay, worker safety, and maternity leave. He also advocated for further economic development and pension plan reforms to ensure sustainability for future generations. Hinting that this may be his last term, Whipps urged voters to consider the future of leadership in Palau.
Foreign Ownership and Population Concerns
Challenger Ishmael Remoket raised significant concerns about the increasing foreign ownership of businesses in Palau, warning of potential local displacement. He pointed to the rising number of foreign workers and called for policies that prioritize local businesses and infrastructure. Remoket emphasized the need for economic development that benefits Palauans first and proposed initiatives in Babeldaob to alleviate the population strain on Koror.
Andrew Tabelual echoed the call for stronger healthcare and educational systems, advocating for increased investment in children’s education and improved health services in outer states. He noted that many Palauans lack adequate healthcare access and called for economic reforms that benefit all citizens.
Addressing Drug Issues and Youth Programs
Vierra Toribiong tackled the growing drug crisis, particularly methamphetamine use among youth. He advocated for stricter laws and increased resources to combat this pressing issue, along with the revival of youth programs like Ngara Ubeng, which had been discontinued due to funding shortages. Toribiong emphasized the increasing social issues facing both young people and the elderly.
Women’s and Children’s Issues
As the only female candidate present, Dilmei Olkeriil championed extended maternity leave and increased wages for essential workers, including teachers, police officers, and hospital staff. She highlighted the importance of vocational education in creating job opportunities for youth and proposed building a new hospital in Koror to meet the needs of the island’s growing population. Olkeriil expressed her support for the Compact of Free Association with the United States, viewing it as crucial to Palau’s security.
Closing Remarks and Future Goals
In their closing statements, candidates reiterated their key messages:
- Mark Rudimch emphasized the need for unity among citizens and leaders, urging everyone to work together to build a better future for Palau.
- Secilil Eldebechel reinforced his vision of a “pristine paradise,” advocating for strong education, healthcare, and economic growth policies. He expressed hope that Palau can thrive while maintaining its cultural identity.
- TJ Imrur Remengesau called for collaboration among candidates and constituents to address pressing issues, emphasizing that together, they can protect Palauan culture and engage citizens both on-island and abroad.
- Mason Whipps stressed the importance of sustainable leadership, hinting at the necessity of passing the torch to the next generation.
- Ishmael Remoket urged for infrastructure development, particularly in Babeldaob, to alleviate the population burden on Koror. He emphasized that local interests must be prioritized in any future economic policies.
- Andrew Tabelual closed with a call to invest in the future, focusing on education and healthcare as foundational elements for a thriving society. He reiterated the importance of inclusive reforms that benefit all citizens.
- Vierra Toribiong concluded with a commitment to tackling the drug crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for support systems for youth and families facing these challenges.
- Dilmei Olkeriil expressed pride in her candidacy as a woman, highlighting the importance of women’s voices in leadershership. She helped an elder lady
This forum showcased a range of visions for Palau’s future, underscoring the candidates’ diverse approaches to critical issues facing the nation.