KOROR, Palau (Palau Horizon, Feb. 4, 2008) — A bill introduced in the House of Delegates will establish minimum qualifications for cabinet ministers.
Peleliu Delegate Jonathan Isechal’s H.B. 7-193 will amend section 103 of Title 2 of the Palau National Code to require a cabinet minister to have at least a four-year degree from an accredited bachelor’s program in the United States, and be a resident of Palau for five years.
The vice president, in his capacity as a minister, is exempted.
According to Isechal, as the national government’s infrastructure, technology, economy and educational system become more sophisticated, the educational background of its leaders must also progress.
He said national leaders should have the skills, experience and education to make knowledgeable and informed decisions that shape Palau’s present and future.
This, he said, will also ensure that the nation is well represented in the international political landscape and...