If the Senate did not confirm the nominees in 90 days, the governor could no longer reappoint them. Hence, he decided to withdraw the nominations.
Press Secretary Angel A. Demapan, in an interview on Friday, said Gov. Benigno R. Fitial believes in the capability of the individuals he appointed to the Marianas Visitors Authority, the Marianas Public Land Trust, the Commonwealth Election Commission, the Retirement Fund board of trustees and the Civil Service Commission.
They are Jerry Tan, MVA; Jesus I. Sablan, election commission; Jerry P. Crisostimo, Retirement Fund board; Nacrina Barcinas, Fund board; and Eric Plinske, Civil Service Commission.
Sen. Francisco Q. Cruz, R-Tinian, earlier told Variety that the Senate Committee on Executive Appointments and Government Investigation, which he chairs, would not entertain any executive appointments unless Rota and Tinian get proper representation on government boards and commissions.
Cruz also encouraged the mayors of Rota and Tinian to submit their nominees to Fitial.
Demapan said the administration is waiting to hear from the Senate committee.
Although the governor welcomes recommendations, he alone under the CNMI Constitution has the authority to appoint board and commission members, Demapan said.
“We try to nominate the individuals who have vast experience,” he added.
