By: Summer Kennard
Two female candidates, Ann Singeo and Joann Risong Tarkong, have stepped forward to run for office in Palau, each driven by a deep commitment to social welfare, inclusivity, and the betterment of their communities. Their platforms reflect a shared vision for more equitable and responsive governance that considers the diverse needs of Palau’s citizens.
Ann Singeo: Strengthening Community Foundations
Ann Singeo, a longtime advocate for public service and social welfare, is motivated by a desire to reinforce the critical foundations of Palauan society. Singeo’s experience working closely with small communities has shaped her understanding of the importance of inclusivity in decision-making. She emphasizes the need for policies that consider all demographics, including women, youth, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ individuals.
“We need people who will continue to care and safeguard our home and our way of life,” Singeo said. “To be able to care and develop our home to meet our specific needs, we must be inclusive in our decision-making and planning.”
Singeo also highlights the traditional role of women in Palauan governance, noting that the current lack of female representation contradicts this heritage. She believes that comprehensive policies addressing social and cultural well-being can only be achieved through gender-balanced leadership.
Joann Risong Tarkong: Advocating for Social and Economic Livelihoods
Joann Risong Tarkong, another candidate for office, is focused on enhancing the social, health, and economic livelihoods of Palauans. Tarkong’s platform is built around key issues such as combating the rise of illicit drugs, improving maternity and paternity leave policies, and addressing the high cost of living. She also advocates for better resources and opportunities for small businesses, particularly those owned by women, persons with disabilities, and retirees.
“I will push for ‘zero tolerance’ on illicit drugs and strengthen legislative enforcement,” Tarkong stated, outlining her priority to combat drug-related challenges in Palau.
Tarkong also stresses the importance of transparency and accountability in leadership, promising to work closely with fellow senators to ensure that the voices of all Palauans are heard and that their needs are addressed through effective legislation.
Challenges for Women in Politics
Both candidates acknowledge the unique challenges that women face in Palauan politics. Singeo points to societal ideologies that discourage women from pursuing high-level decision-making roles, while Tarkong highlights the need for better resources to support women in their campaigns.
Despite these challenges, both Singeo and Tarkong are committed to making a positive difference for Palau’s future. Their candidacies represent a significant step toward more inclusive and responsive governance, driven by a deep understanding of the communities they seek to serve.