Latest news with #ArnoldPalacios
AllAfrica
a day ago
- Politics
- AllAfrica
Northern Mariana Islands lose their last best hope
I was in awe of Arnold Palacios, who passed away on July 23. Having spent a good part of my career dealing with public and private corruption, I never once saw a top official ask to be investigated and mean it. That takes courage and, ultimately, a deep love for one's constituents and country. Imagine, for example, the mayor of Chicago asking the feds to come and examine the city's books. That request will never happen. But it did happen in the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). Corruption is, of course, not rare in CNMI, and no sane person pretends otherwise. Governor Palacios' own words tell his story. In a presentation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies in Washington in 2024, he described how, when he came into office, he tried to find out what happened to around $1.6 billion in federal funding (CARES, ARPA, etc) that had been given to the CNMI, (population around 45,000) during the pandemic era. As he said: 'the last thing we want to do, or want to see, is for the CNMI community to suffer over a long period of time because of some of the careless squandering, or even criminal squandering, of resources that were given to us by the federal government. We saw it, I saw it, a lot of people in the community saw it happening. And so, we wanted that to be validated by a robust financial investigation. We needed to come clean. I wasn't about to cover up all these things.' The governor repeatedly asked federal agencies to help. On April 24, 2025, he asked CNMI Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds to ask FBI Director Kash Patel to do 'intensive investigations of public corruption' in CNMI, mentioning he has 'considerable evidence to provide.' In the FDD interview, he said the situation left him feeling like 'John the Baptist out in the desert. That's how lonely it has been.' That's also astonishing bravery. Indeed, Arnold Palacios' briefing and comments at FDD should be required viewing for all elected members of Congress and state legislatures in the United States. A word about Director Patel's shutting down investigations into former CNMI Governor Ralph Torres, the Imperial Pacific casino and related matters in July 2025 was perplexing and stupid. This decision needs to be reexamined. There's more to all this than just 'local' corruption. Governor Palacios recognized the threat posed by China to CNMI and the United States. How right was he? The US Congress' China Select Committee, which has access to 'all the intelligence,' issued a rare statement of condolence on learning of Governor Palacios' death, saying in part, 'He was a devoted public servant and a true patriot who courageously stood against Chinese coercion, steadfastly defending the sovereignty of the CNMI and the American homeland. His principled leadership and unwavering dedication to his people will leave a lasting legacy and will not be forgotten.' Chinese investment always appears as a panacea solving one's economic woes, but it invariably leads to corruption, crime and a local constituency that is beholden to China's interests. You would think CNMI's long experience with Chinese casinos—most recently Imperial Pacific on Saipan, which came after the earlier garment industry debacle—might have opened some eyes. Still, there's a push for more and more and unvetted, or poorly vetted, Chinese investment in the CNMI, as if there are no dangers and no alternatives, but there are. This is all part of China's political warfare intended to subvert societies and to insert Chinese influence. Get in the way and expect to be fiercely attacked, as Gov. Palacios was, and as former Federated States of Micronesia President David Panuelo and former Malaita Premier Daniel Suidani can attest. Chinese proxies are rife in the CNMI, throughout the Pacific and in Washington DC itself. They've been in place for years and their tentacles are everywhere. Now, the one man who had the character, inside experience and clout to stop them in CNMI is gone. There will be plenty of crocodile tears about Palacios' passing in certain quarters but, if there's one thing Chinese proxies hate, it's transparency and clarity. Palacios scared them. They are no doubt glad he is gone. Expect the clamoring for 'China investment' to ramp up soon. If China's proxies are close enough to the levers, they may even ground down the CNMI economy to justify more Chinese access as 'the only way out.' That would be Beijing's standard operating procedure. Hopefully, Governor Arnold Palacios was not the CNMI's last best hope. And instead, we are his last best hope. Let's see if Governor Palacios' successors take up his calls for serious US government-led investigations into the corruption that has squandered CNMI citizens' prosperity for too long while lining a select few pockets in CNMI and elsewhere. If they instead declare, 'let sleeping dogs lie,' or 'let's just move along,' or 'it's the culture,' then you'll know they were, and are, in on it as well. That shows contempt for the CNMI and its citizens, for whom Arnold Palacios put his life on the line. Governor Palacios, well done, thou good and faithful servant. Colonel Grant Newsham is the author of 'When China Attacks: A Warning to America.' A retired US Marine, he served in the Indo-Pacific for decades and was instrumental in establishing Japan's amphibious force. As a US foreign service officer, he covered a number of regions, including East and South Asia, and specialized in insurgency, counterinsurgency and commercial matters. This article first appeared on Pacific Island Times and is republished with permission. Read the original here.
RNZ News
4 days ago
- Politics
- RNZ News
Residents pay tribute as Palacios' remains return to Saipan
First lady Wella Palacios and family members accompanied the governor's body, which received a ceremonial water salute on arrival at Francisco C Ada/Saipan International Airport. Photo: Marianas Press Residents of the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands braved the rain on Saturday to pay their respects to the late govenror Arnold Palacios as his remains returned home aboard a US military C-130 aircraft. First lady Wella Palacios and family members accompanied the governor's body, which received a ceremonial water salute on arrival at Francisco C Ada/Saipan International Airport. Palacios, who served the CNMI in multiple leadership roles over decades-from cabinet secretary to legislator, lieutenant governor, and finally governor-died last week while receiving treatment in Guam. CNMI governor David Apatang personally greeted the family at the tarmac before joining the motorcade to the ONRA Life Memorials (formerly Cabrera Funeral Home). Dozens of residents lined the route, many waving CNMI flags or bowing their heads as the hearse passed. Apatang, who ran alongside Palacios on the 2023 winning ticket, called him "a good friend and a relative." "He has a long history of service to the people of the Commonwealth," Apatang said, noting Palacios' willingness to assist municipal governments and community projects throughout his career. "He was a hard worker who often skipped lunch and stayed late at the office, focused on helping our people." The late governor's family released a statement expressing "profound gratitude and deep appreciation to friends, colleagues, and community members-from across the CNMI and beyond-who have offered their prayers and shared stories of his meaningful impact." The Palacios family also thanked Guam Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, Lt Gov Josh Tenorio, US Indo-Pacific Command, Joint Region Marianas, and the medical teams at Guam Regional Medical City and the Commonwealth Health Center Corporation for their support. During the procession, public and private entities such as the American Red Cross NMI Chapter, Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, Saipan Mayor's Office, Commonwealth Utilities Corp (CUC), and the Carolinian Affairs Office honored Palacios' memory. CUC staff formed an archway with two bucket trucks, while members of the Carolinian community performed a traditional atiwa ritual, meant to honor leaders as they transition to the next life. Funeral arrangements are pending, with more details expected in the coming days.
RNZ News
6 days ago
- Politics
- RNZ News
Northern Marianas Governor invites public to pay tribute to Arnold Palacios
The flag of the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Photo: 123rf The body of the former Northern Marianas Governor Arnold Palacios will arrive in the Commonwealth today from Guam. Mr Palacios was medivacced to Guam after collapsing in his office on Wednesday morning - he died that night. He was 69 years-old. In a statement, the CNMI Offices' of the Governor, and Lieutenant Governor announced the scheduled arrival of Mr Palacios at 10:30am local time. Photo: Mark Rabago "In honor of his lifelong public service and lifetime legacy, I hereby request all members of the Cabinet to join us accordingly to welcome our late governor, accompanied by first lady Wella and their children and family. Only the immediate families and authorized personnel are allowed at the designated arrival tarmac area," a statement from the offices of Governor David M. Apatang and Lt. Governor Dennis C. Mendiola read. Following the arrival of Palacios' body, a motorcade will proceed to Cabrera Funeral Home, located at the Cabrera Center along Beach Road, Garapan. "All members of the public are also respectfully invited to join us at the airport along the motorcade route as we honor and receive our late Governor Palacios with dignity, respect, and lasting gratitude," the statement continued. The route will begin along the road from the Commuter Terminal, right along Chalan Tun Herman Pan, left along Chalan Monsignor Guerrero, and right on Beach Road traffic light. "Your presence would be a meaningful and heartfelt gesture of deep respect and unity during this solemn moment as we pay tribute and join his family in grief and mourn for our late governor Palacios," the statement ended.
RNZ News
23-07-2025
- Politics
- RNZ News
CNMI governor Arnold Palacios, 69, passes away after medical incident
Late CNMI Governor Arnold Palacios Photo: Facebook / Office of Governor Arnold I. Palacios Governor Arnold Indalecio Palacios passed away at the age of 69 late Wednesday night after a medical incident led him to collapse in his office on Capitol Hill on Saipan. He was immediately rushed to the Commonwealth Health Center and later was medically evacuated by a military helicopter to the Guam Regional Medical Center in Guam. Acting governor David Apatang said it's with profound sorrow and deep sadness that he's announcing the untimely passing of Palacios. Apatang now becomes governor, and Senate President Dennis Mendiola takes over as lieutenant governor. Both will be sworn in immediately. Apatang said Palacios passed away peacefully on the evening of Wednesday, July 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. "A dedicated public servant for more than three decades, Gov Palacios served the people of the CNMI with unwavering commitment, compassion, and integrity. From his early service in the Legislature to his time as lieutenant governor, speaker of the House, president of the Senate, and ultimately as governor, he was a tireless advocate for good governance, fiscal responsibility, environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and the well-being of all who call the Marianas home," he said in a statement. Apatang added that Palacios leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, perseverance, humility, visionary leadership, and a deep love for the Commonwealth and its people. "He will be remembered as a unifier, a steady hand during times of challenge, and a leader who never wavered in his belief in the strength and resilience of the people he served." He then recognises this is a difficult time for the Commonwealth and thus is offering his sincerest condolences and sympathy to first lady Wella Palacios and their children and families. "I am deeply in sorrow and I join Wella and the family's grief during this time of mourning as we pray and remember my friend, Gov Palacios, for his sacrifice and life of public service for all." Details regarding memorial services and public tributes will be announced in the coming days. "The thoughts and prayers of the entire Commonwealth are with First Lady Wella Palacios, their children and grandchildren, the extended Palacios family, and all who mourn this immeasurable loss. As we grieve together, let us honor Governor Palacios by continuing to uphold the values he championed: unity, respect, and service," added Apatang. The CNMI flag shall be flown at half-staff until further notice in solemn tribute to the life and service of Palacios, according to Apatang. Palacios, the 10th governor of the CNMI, rose to the executive seat rooted in a legacy of public service and with the promise to rebuild trust in leadership. He served alongside Lieutenant Governor David Apatang since January 2023. Palacios had a long political career even before being elected governor in 2023. He previously served as the 12th lieutenant governor of the Commonwealth, serving alongside Gov. Ralph DLG Torres from January 2019 to January 2023. As lieutenant governor, he oversaw the Office of Planning and Development, the Office of Grants Management, and the CNMI's permitting agencies and led policy initiatives on government efficiency, business permitting processes, and regulatory functions. He also played an active role in the CNMI's relationship with the Federal Government with discussions on labor viability and proposed military projects in the Marianas. Palacios also served as the Senate president during the 20th CNMI Legislature from January 2017 to January 2019 and as Senate vice president during the 19th CNMI Legislature from January 2015 to January 2017. He has served four terms in the House of Representatives and served as speaker of the House of Representatives during the 16th CNMI Legislature from January 2008 to January 2010. He also served as the Secretary of Lands and Natural Resources from February 2012 to January 2015. During his time in the Legislature, he championed legislation and policies on natural resources, environmental conservation, economic development, and federal relations. He was a member of the Governor's Section 902 Consultation team in 2016, when he helped articulate the CNMI's position on labor, immigration, and US military buildup proposals. As Senate president, he created the Office of Planning and Development, establishing development objectives, standards, and principles for the CNMI's desired land use for residential, recreational, agricultural, commercial, and industrial needs. Born on 22 August 1955, on Saipan, Palacios attended Mt Carmel School. He then enrolled at Portland State University in Oregon, earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Management.
RNZ News
16-07-2025
- Politics
- RNZ News
Massive US-led military exercise underway in CNMI
The DC Air National Guard squadron's F-16s arrived at Hickam for a quick pitstop before heading out in support of the REFORPAC exercise. Photo: Facebook / U.S. Pacific Air Forces The Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) will be front and center of the Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 2025 as the US Air Force launched its most expansive military exercise in the region last week. The Commonwealth Bureau of Military Affairs official Edward Camacho said nearly 300 aircraft and over 600 troops will conduct military exercise in about 25 locations on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota and their surrounding airspace during exercise set from 7 July to 8 August. The special assistant for military affairs to the CNMI governor Arnold Palacios said that Saipan military exercises started on 7 July, followed by Tinian and Rota's on 8 and 9 July 8, respectively. The Saipan exercises will be happening until 8 August, with both Tinian and Rota's concluding at the end of July. Relaying a message from the Pacific Air Forces deputy commander, he said the goal of the exercise "is to integrate and experiment with logistics, sustainment, and enabling capability to bring Fifth Generation Fighters, command and control aircraft, and airlift and air refueling into the Western Pacific region at the speed and scale that has not been seen." US Pacific Air Forces, multinational, and joint partners will conduct exercise Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC) 10 July - 8 August 2025, across several locations throughout the Pacific as part of the Department of the Air Force's Department-Level Exercise (DLE) series. Photo: Palacios welcomed the US military and forces from allied and partner nations as they commence REFORPAC 2025. "The US Armed Forces and our esteemed international partners who are gathering in our region for vital military presence underscores a shared commitment to regional security, stability, and humanitarian cooperation," he said. Palacios said REFORPAC will go a long way in strengthening the alliance between the US and its allies. A C-17 Globemaster III touched down at Misawa Air Base in support of Exercise REFORPAC 2025, offloading a HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter, cargo, and personnel to enable combat search and rescue operations. Photo: Facebook / Misawa Air Base The Air Force will deploy over 500 Airmen on Saipan with two C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, four Black Hawk medium utility helicopters; approximately 115 Airmen on Tinian and six F-22 Raptor stealth fighter aircraft; and 25 personnel and two C-130 Hercules transport aircraft on Rota. Camacho said the Air Force assured stakeholders they will toe the line when it comes to mitigation processes to ensure the military exercise is not disruptive to the islands' ecosystems and way of life. He said REFORPAC is vital to the United States and the region's security "because it showcases our air power and then it also showcases our ability to work with other countries as far as operational interoperability capabilities and as well as communications and maneuvering." Asked to comment on a request made by four CNMI and Guam groups to have a 45-day extension on the comment period for the Revised Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), Camacho said that it is not his decision to make. The Revised DEIS' current 75-day review window for public comments on the Mariana Islands Training and Testing and CNMI Joint Military Training proposals began 6 June 6 and is scheduled to close on 20 August. "I don't have any problem with an extension of the 45 days. Unfortunately, others might, and the others that might have that issue are beyond my level to make that decision."
