Palau Senate President Hokkons Baules has firmly denied allegations made by the United States Department of State, which include claims of corruption and collusion with Chinese nationals. In a recent session with his fellow senators and the public, Baules expressed his confusion over the accusations, asserting that he has never engaged in any corrupt activities or accepted bribes from Chinese businessmen.
Baules stated, “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 reiterated his commitment to uphold the oath he took as a senator, vowing to protect the laws and constitution of Palau.
The U.S. State Department’s statement not only raised these concerns but also indicated that Baules and his family are barred from entering the United States. While questioning the rationale behind this decision, Baules expressed respect for U.S. sovereignty, stating, “That is their right.” He conveyed that he has previously traveled to Guam for Palau Independence Day celebrations, but if U.S. authorities choose to refuse him entry, he accepts that decision.
Seeking clarity on the accusations, Baules called for transparency from U.S. authorities. He urged President Surangel Whipps Jr. and the Ministry of State to request further information from the State Department, emphasizing that if the allegations hold any weight, he has no objections to being prosecuted. “If it is proven in court that I did have criminal involvement, let it be,” he remarked.
Additionally, Baules addressed the presence of Chinese nationals in Palau. Acknowledging that some have faced legal issues in the past, he raised concerns over those on the president’s Undesirable Aliens list who had valid Foreign Investment Board licenses but were not charged or investigated. Despite this, he reiterated respect for the president’s decisions.
He clarified that differences in opinions between the legislative and executive branches do not imply animosity, referencing a lawsuit filed by the Senate aimed at seeking legal clarification instead of opposing the executive. Baules also touched on the complexities surrounding deportees entering Palau under a memorandum of understanding, questioning the legal authority for their temporary entry while emphasizing the distinction between these individuals and lawful foreign workers.
Baules concluded his address by expressing his commitment to transparency and the rule of law, assuring the public that he has nothing to hide while awaiting 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 affirmed.