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Wave of criticism
Last week had an important day for France concerning its past leaders. Coincidentally in Saipan it was reported that three prominent leaders of the CNMI private sector railed against CNMI government leaders for their total ineptitude in financial management and budget planning abilities.
A local ophthalmologist spelled out how local leaders have a difficult time understanding federal matching funding and budgeting in regards to Medicaid.
The Saipan Chamber of Commerce president stated to the Legislature to get real and get to work for the people. He also seemed extremely frustrated at the how government leaders look at the private sector as an unlimited revenue source
A well-respected attorney spoke out on the need for the Legislature to start reducing spending on all nonessential services. Then he went on to say if there is not enough money to pay what is owed and keep the government open (and there is not enough money now) the Legislature has to figure out what are the essential government agencies and funds only them.
It is highly unlikely that these well respected honorable individuals are in cahoots or in some sort of partnership. Nonetheless they each criticized the CNMI government leaders in one way or another.
It appears that the citizens of the CNMI are becoming frustrated and unsatisfied at the performance of their government leaders. It will be interesting if any current elected officials will try to run on their record or just concentrate on rallying friends and family. It will also be interesting to see how the CNMI voters respond. Happy belated Bastille Day.
Juan Cruz
Austin, Texas
