Overview:
Two of Palau’s states are heading to the polls next month. Ngiwal will hold its 22nd legislative election on July 14, with ten candidates competing for seats before 758 registered voters. Meanwhile, Ngeremlengui is set for a special election on July 28 to fill the legislative seat vacated by former floor leader Marvin Wasisang, who stepped down for a career change. Here’s what voters in both states need to know.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
Koror, Palau (June 22, 2026) — Two states will hold elections for their legislatures next month, with Ngiwal voters choosing a new slate of lawmakers and Ngeremlengui holding a special election to fill a recent vacancy.
Ngiwal will hold its 22nd legislative election on July 14. According to the Palau Election Commission (PEC), Ngiwal elects its legislature every two years even though the governor serves a four‑year term. The deadline for nominating petitions closed May 29 and voter registration ended June 1.
PEC shares that there are 10 candidates listed on the ballot for Ngiwal legislature: Manasseh Temol, Bernard Ngiraibai, Marina I. Udui, Russell Masayos, Loraine Kloulubak, Elmis M. Bechab, Ilabsis Ngirakesau, Emilia “Emy” Katosang, Bolton “Balt” Tengoll, and Clarence Masayos.
Ngiwal currently has 758 registered voters.
In west Babeldaob, Ngeremlengui will hold a special election on July 28 to replace former legislator Marvin Bitlaol Wasisang, who resigned for a career change according to information obtained from the Ngeremlengui legislature’s office.
Wasisang had served as the legislature’s floor leader; his resignation triggered a leadership vacancy leading state legislators to elect Hilton Hideos to succeed him as Floor leader.
The deadline for both voter registration and submission of nominating petitions for the Ngeremlengui election is July 13. As of yesterday, the PEC recorded 626 registered voters in the state.
.
