Palikir, Pohnpei –– On April 11, 2024, Vice President Aren B. Palik swore in four new members of Boards and Committee for the FSM National Government at the President’s Office Conference Room. The Ceremony began with an opening prayer administered by Rev. Alfred Lebehn, followed by the formal administration of the Oath of Office by Vice President Palik to Mr. Renseley A. Sigrah, who was the first to take the oath of office on his nomination to be a member on the Compact Trust Fund Committee after he was confirmed by Congress. Vice President Palik then proceeded to administer the Oath of Office to Mr. Kandhi A. Elieisar to represent the national government as a member on the Board of Directors of the FSM Telecommunications Corporation. Following Mr. Elieisar’s oath taking, the Vice President swore in Mr. Kapilly Capelle as a member on the Board of Directors of the National Oceanic Resource Management Authority representing the State of Pohnpei. Lastly, Vice President Palik then swore in Mr. Wilson F. Waguk as a member of the Board of Directors of the National Oceanic Resource Management Authority representing the State of Kosrae.
Mr. Elieisar was asked by the newly appointed members to represent them in saying a few words on this important occasion. Mr. Elieisar began by thanking everyone in attendance including the Vice President who graciously administered the swearing-in for the four Board and Committee members. He proceeded to thank the President and Vice President for the trust and confidence placed in him and his other colleagues undertaking their respective oaths of office. He also thanked Congress for the support on their individual nominations, and made mention of the theme of unity embraced and advanced by the Simina-Palik Administration to highlight the need for collective work and collaboration across the board for the good of the Nation and People.
Vice President Palik ended the ceremonial program for the day with his remarks to the new members and all those in attendance. He stated that he looks forward to working with all of them in unity and collaboration and expressed his support and confidence that the newly sworn-in members will do well in their respective assignments. He then sated that all national agencies including these concerned are vital to the growth and development of this nation, and these boards and committees are at the forefront of decision-making in these entities making their roles critical in national growth and development.