Bougainville woman minister confident of second term
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RNZ News
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- 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
4 hours ago
- RNZ News
Henry Puna returns as president of Cook Islands Party
Pacific Islands Forum secretary general, Henry Puna. Photo: Forumsec Former Cook Islands Prime Minister and Pacific Islands Forum secretary-general Henry Puna has been appointed president of the ruling Cook Islands Party (CIP). The CIP is the party of Prime Minister Mark Brown, who continues to serve as party leader. Puna has also previously served as CIP leader. A statement from Cook Islands Party said Puna brings "unparalleled experience" in his former roles as, party president, party leader, Prime Minister, and head of the Pacific Islands Forum. "His return to the Party Executive signals a renewed sense of stability, unity, and strategic focus," the statement said. "With Henry Puna as President, and Mark Brown leading as Prime Minister and Party Leader, the Cook Islands Party is confident in its future direction and leadership." Former Cook Islands Prime Minister Henry Puna has been appointed president of the Cook Islands Party. Photo: Cook Islands Party The change in president comes as the governments of New Zealand and the Cook Islands are in an increased time of tension stemming from what Wellington views as a lack of consultation over deals Brown signed with China in February. New Zealand paused $18.2m in development assistance last month. The statement from the party said delegates were briefed on the current diplomatic challenges between the Cook Islands and New Zealand. "One of the immediate priorities for the new Party President is to work closely with the Party Leader and Prime Minister to navigate these issues and uphold the interests of the Cook Islands," the statement said. The annual general meeting was held on Thursday local time on Rarotonga and was attended by representatives from all 24 electorates.
RNZ News
5 hours ago
- RNZ News
Electoral law changes 'serious breach of rights': Lawyer
politics national 22 minutes ago A constitutional lawyer says the electoral law changes planned by the government are a serious breach of New Zealanders rights. Constitutional lawyer Graeme Edgeler spoke to Charlotte Cook.
