Former Speaker Oscar C. Rasa, the group’s spokesman and adviser, was reacting to Saipan council member Felipe Q. Atalig’s assurance to “vigorously protect the interest of the indigenous people of CNMI.”
Rasa, whose group claims to have 2,000 members, said Atalig seemed to be implying that he will secure the support of the indigenous people.
Atalig announced his Independent candidacy on Tuesday.
“We need to hear the candidates speak about specific issues affecting the indigenous people,” Rasa said.
He added that although their group is non-political and has made no commitments to any candidate, their members will have their own criteria to guide them in the November election..
According to Rasa, his group will sponsor a debate for all the candidates.
Besides Atalig, the other candidates are Washington Rep. Pete A. Tenorio, outgoing Election Commission Executive Director Gregorio C. Sablan, Sen. Luis P. Crisostimo, former Sen. David M. Cing, former Judge Juan T. Lizama and Department of Public Lands official John DLR. Gonzales.
