Uduch Sengebau Senior, vice president and minister of justice of the Republic of Palau, addresses the general debate of the General Assembly’s 79th session on Sept. 26, 2024.
KOROR (Island Times/Pacnews) — Several female candidates have stepped into Palau’s political arena, signaling a shift toward greater gender representation.
Of the 34 candidates running for the House of Delegates, six are women, while another six women are among the 26 candidates running for the 15 Senate seats.
Discussions surrounding reapportionment are also in focus, with a court decision pending that could affect the number of Senate seats.
Additionally, incumbent Uduch Sengebau Senior remains the sole woman running for the vice presidency.
The female candidates running for the House of Delegates this year include Rebecca Sebalt Ngirmechaet in Ngchesar State, Johana Ngiruchelbad and Stephanie Ngirchoimei in Airai State, Portia Franz Kesolei in Ngeremlengui State, Francesca Ruluked Otong in Ngatpang State, and Serelina Bota Ridep in Peleliu State.
In the Senate race, the female contenders include Ann Kloulechad Singeo, Joann Risong Tarkong, Rukebai Kikuo Skey Inabo, Sandra Sumang Pierantozzi, Dilmei L. Olkeriil, and Ann Latii Pedro.
Despite being a matrilineal society, Palau has historically had a low number of women in decision-making positions.
According to the U.N. Women 2023 Women-in-Politics Map publication, Palau ranks 173 out of 191 countries in terms of women representation in its National Congress: One out of 16 in the House of Delegates and one out of 13 in the Senate.
The increasing number of women candidates reflects a growing commitment to inclusive leadership in Palau. This year’s female candidates not only highlight their determination but also set a precedent for future elections, paving the way for a more equitable representation in Palau’s national government.
