by Alonzo Kahalic/alkahalic6801@gmail.com
Dear Leadership of Palau,
In response to your inquiry regarding President Remengesau running in this year’s 2024 election, I’d like to address the phrase consecutive terms, “which means terms that are served without interruption” and how it applies to the position of President of the Republic of Palau.
The phrase “consecutive terms” refers to serving terms in office back-to-back without any breaks between them. In the context of the Presidency of the Republic of Palau, this means that an individual can serve multiple terms as president, but only two terms consecutively. After serving two consecutive terms, they must step down and cannot immediately run for a third consecutive term. However, they are eligible to run again after sitting out at least one term.
Your sudden interest in interpreting this clause raises questions about the timing and motivation behind it. Why are we scrutinizing this clause now? Is it a genuine concern for the rule of law, or is it motivated by personal or political interests? This selective questioning, especially when it appears to affect you directly, undermines the credibility of the inquiry. It gives the impression that the law is only questioned when it is inconvenient or poses a threat to personal ambitions.
Such behavior from our leaders, diminishes public trust and sets a poor example for the citizens of Palau. It is crucial for leaders to consult with experts before making public statements or raising legal questions. Failure to do so not only reflect poorly on their understanding of their responsibilities but also highlights a lack of preparedness and sincerity in serving the people. This pattern of behavior among some members of the OEK and Executive demonstrates a pressing need for change. Leaders must be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to serve effectively, rather than merely serving their interests.
An elder once imparted wisdom about the pre-democratic era in Palau, where roles were clearly defined, and individuals were trained for their specific duties. Carpenters built the Bai, boat builders crafted canoes, fishermen provided sustenance, and leaders were groomed to lead. In contrast, today’s democratic system seems to have allowed some members of the OEK to believe that swearing an oath of office grants them EXPERTISE in all matters (Doctor of Everything). This is a dangerous misconception. True leaders understand the importance of surrounding themselves with knowledgeable advisors and experts to inform their decisions.
It is time for our leaders to stop pretending to be experts in everything and start focusing on genuinely helping our community thrive. Serving the public should be about more than just personal gain; it should be about fostering a prosperous, inclusive, and well-governed society for all Palauan’s.
Here are four issues that should have been dealt with but did not in the last 4 years. 1. Public Safety and the issue of drugs, both legal and illegal. 2. Cost of living in Palau 3. Preparing our youth to be active citizens in Palau and the world and not just to take placement tests and 4. Health issue of Palau and NCDs, Palau is literally the 3rd fattest country in the world per capita from: https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/countries-with-most-obese-people-1701110029-1
Question these four issues and stop poli-tricking.
Your Humble Servant
Al Kahalic