Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr has announced plans to retain his current Cabinet
Ministers in his upcoming administration, with Vice President-elect Raynold “Arnold”
Oilouch slated to lead the Ministry of Justice.
The Island Times reports that there will be continuity in key government positions.
Whipps affirmed that Oilouch, as Vice President-elect, will also serve as the Minister of
Justice.
Under Palau’s Constitution, the Vice President is automatically part of the President’s cabinet
and does not require Senate approval for the assigned portfolio.
Oilouch previously held the dual role of Vice President and Minister of Justice during the
10th government under former President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr.
The current cabinet lineup includes Minister Charles Obichang of the Ministry of Public
Infrastructure and Industries (MPII), Minister Ngirai Tmetuchl of the Ministry of Human
Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development, Minister Dale Jenkins of the Ministry of
Education, Minister Gaafar Uherbelau of the Ministry of Health and Human Services,
Minister Gustav Aitaro of the Ministry of State, Minister Steven Victor of the Ministry of
Fisheries, Agriculture and Industries, and Minister Kaleb Udui Jr. of the Ministry of Finance.
Vice President and Minister of Justice J. Uduch Sengebau-Senior will be replaced by
Oilouch, but all other ministers are expected to be reappointed, pending Senate confirmation.
Meanwhile, Whipps does not expect substantial changes to Palau’s relationship with the
United States under the administration of President Donald Trump.
While acknowledging the potential for shifts in US policy, Whipps suggests Palau’s existing
ties and aid arrangements with the US will likely remain stable under the Compact of Free
Association (COFA).
“Federal assistance will continue under COFA, though we should stay aware that some
programs could face cuts,” Whipps noted, referencing the Republican-led push to reduce
certain federal grants, including the food assistance program.
Whipps also touched on potential US military plans involving Palau, underscoring that the
Trump administration has emphasized military readiness and expansion.
Former Defense Secretary Mark Esper reinforced US priorities to strengthen military capabilities and strategic flexibility in the Pacific, which could mean ongoing investments in Palau’s ports and airports,
even though no specific plans for a military base have been confirmed.