The news story “Fitial nominates three to CPA board,” published on Wednesday Aug. 20, exposed another near disastrous decision by Benigno Fitial, whom I outright refuse to address as “governor.” Benigno Fitial never ceases to amaze me. One of his nominees to the CPA board of directors (Frank Camacho) declined the nomination, I assume due to his association with Pacific Oriental Inc, which by the way is a tenant of Saipan International Airport conducting all their business activities at the airport. Kudos to Frank Camacho for declining the nomination — I’ll assume it was his business ethics that guided him to decide in the overall best interest of the CNMI and his employer.
I can’t say the same for previous CPA board member Antonio S. Camacho, owner or executive or both of Westpac Freight whose business activities took place at both the airport and seaport in Saipan. Sadly, Antonio probably never thought his board membership was a direct conflict of interest. Ignorance is bliss, but inexcusable. I recall bringing this issue up with Rep. Francisco S. Dela Cruz who chaired the Committee on Public Utilities, Transportation and Communications for the 15th Legislature, but all I got was an empty promise from Rep. Dela Cruz that he will “look into it.” Sadly, Rep. Dela Cruz was reelected and is currently serving in the 16th Legislature, although I don’t know at what capacity. What a waste of taxpayer money.
Going back to Benigno, his decision to give full CUC authority to Tim Villagomez is asinine (foolish, unintelligent or stupid) at best. Need I say more? The collateral damage done by Tim Villagomez to Benigno and his beloved Covenant Party is huge and irreversible. Well my point is Tim was a former CUC executive, and should not have been given the responsibility to run CUC. Benigno and Tim should immediately cut their losses by resigning and forget about reelection. I will campaign like hell against Ben and Tim if they seek reelection. Word of advise to anyone with aspirations to run for office — don’t entertain Ben and Tim. In fact, the GOP ought to kick Tim out of the party. I sure as hell have voter’s remorse for voting for Ben and Tim — kinda like buyer’s remorse, only I can’t get my vote back. Darn, I should have insured my vote.
Peace!
PHILIP LEYLAND
Navy Hill, Saipan
