‘Independent Republicans’ endorse Kilili

The so-called “Independent Republicans” endorsed yesterday the re-election of Delegate Gregorio Kilili Sablan (Ind-MP), following in the steps of the Covenant Party, which is also supporting Sablan.

“Independent Republicans” or IRs are former members of the Republican Party who did not support Gov. Benigno R. Fitial’s chairmanship of the party after what they described as a questionable election process last year.

Fitial wanted Sablan, who is seeking a third term, to be replaced by someone from his Republican Party.

Senate floor leader Pete Reyes (R-Saipan), chairman of the Independent Republicans, said yesterday that Sablan has been “doing a good job.”

“Why not Kilili? We’re satisfied with his performance. We are very comfortable that Kilili will continue to do a good job and we feel that he is the best candidate,” Reyes told Saipan Tribune.

Former representative and lieutenant governor Diego Benavente, vice chair and secretary of “Independent Republicans,” echoed Reyes’ statements about their choice.

Sablan, when asked for comment, said he’s “very grateful” for the Independent Republicans and their supporters’ endorsement of his candidacy.

“As always, I will continue to work hard for our people and the CNMI in Washington, D.C. in Congress. I welcome anyone and everyone’s support,” he said.

Rep. Ray Yumul (R-Saipan), also an Independent Republican, said he supports Sablan because the work he does is “generally supported by members in U.S. Congress. It’s about the quality of work and not necessarily the quantity of bills introduced.”

Fitial’s Republican Party was scheduled to meet again last night at the governor’s private residence in Gualo Rai. Republicans were to hear from John Oliver “Bolis” Gonzales whether he accepts or not the GOP’s nomination as their delegate candidate.

As of 6:45pm last night, Gonzales had yet to make an announcement of his decision.

Reyes, meanwhile, said those who want to run as Independent Republicans in Precincts 1 and 3 have until April 15 to submit their intention to him or Benavente.

Besides Precincts 1 and 3, the Independent Republicans will also field a senatorial candidate for Saipan-Rep. Ray Yumul (R-Saipan).

Among incumbent Independent Republicans are House minority leader Joseph Deleon Guerrero, Rep. Ray Tebuteb, Rep. Frank Dela Cruz, and Rep. Tony Sablan.