The Special Election to elect a hamlet representative for Ikelau hamlet of Koror State has been set by Palau Election Commission for July 24, 2020.
The Registration and Nominating Petition deadlines are 15 days before the election day which all fall on July 10, 2020. Absentee ballot request deadline is also July 10th, 2020.
The position was made vacant after the untimely passing of former Legislator Vann Isaac this May, 2020. Koror State Constitution states that if a vacancy occurs with more than 180 days remaining in the term, an election must take place within 45 days of the vacancy.
Currently no official declarations for the seat have been made.
Meanwhile, a 3rd Special Session called yesterday for the 11th Koror State Legislature was cancelled due to lack of quorum according to reliable sources. Eight out of eight legislators did not show for various reasons. Items to be addressed on this special session included 5 requests for rezoning of areas in Koror and the re-appointment of Koror State Public Land Authority members.
Some of the reasons for not showing included being at the rock island, being sick, being at court, attending meeting at President’s office and other excused absences. Sources say that all had earlier confirmed attendance on Friday but yesterday said were unable to attend.
Election of a representative for Ikelau hamlet will bring the number of legislators to 17, providing possible majority to break a deadlock if one exists. (By: L.N. Reklai)