Palau Senate President Hokkons Baules has strongly refuted allegations made by the United States Department of State regarding claims of corruption and collusion with Chinese nationals. During a recent session attended by fellow senators and the public, Baules voiced his confusion over the accusations, firmly maintaining that he has never participated in any corrupt practices or accepted bribes from Chinese business individuals.
In his statements, Baules remarked, “I don’t know what corruption I am involved in Palau or outside of Palau. I don’t have Chinese friends who are criminals, in Palau or outside of Palau. And I have never taken money from businessmen in Palau or outside of Palau.” He reaffirmed his dedication to the oath he took as a senator, underscoring his commitment to safeguard the laws and constitution of Palau.
The U.S. State Department’s assertions not only highlighted concerns about Baules but also resulted in a travel ban for him and his family, preventing them from entering the United States. In light of this, Baules expressed his bewilderment regarding the reasoning behind the ban but acknowledged the U.S. government’s rights. “That is their right,” he stated, recalling his previous travels to Guam for Palau Independence Day celebrations while accepting the possibility of being denied future entry.
Baules called for clarity on the allegations, urging President Surangel Whipps Jr. and the Ministry of State to seek further information from the State Department. He emphasized that he would welcome prosecution if the claims are substantiated, stating, “If it is proven in court that I did have criminal involvement, let it be.”
He also addressed the presence of Chinese nationals in Palau, noting that while some have encountered legal issues in the past, there are individuals on the president’s Undesirable Aliens list with valid Foreign Investment Board licenses who have not been charged or probed. Despite this, Baules reiterated his respect for the president’s decisions.
Touching upon the relationship between the legislative and executive branches, Baules clarified that differing opinions should not be perceived as hostility, referencing a lawsuit filed by the Senate that seeks legal clarification rather than positioning against the executive. He brought attention to the complexities surrounding deportees entering Palau under a memorandum of understanding, questioning the legal basis for their temporary admission while differentiating between these individuals and lawful foreign workers.
In conclusion, Baules reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and adherence to the rule of law, assuring the public that he has no secrets as he awaits responses from U.S. authorities. “Our country has an open government, a government of laws, and there is a process to follow to determine if a person is guilty or not,” he stated, highlighting a hopeful outlook for clarity and justice.