Republicans focus on diversifying economy By MAR-VIC CAGURANGAN Staff Reporter

Republican candidates urged CNMI voters on Sunday to give the party another chance to rule the Legislature and continue the economic reforms they have initiated.

They said the Republican Party wants to pursue more economic opportunities by inviting foreign investments that would lead to economic diversification in the CNMI.

The Republican Party’s campaign rally at Oleai Beach on Sunday was attended by about 300 supporters, friends and relatives.

Incumbent Rep. Oscar Babauta, who is seeking reelection in District 2, urged voters to support the Republican Party’s “legacy” which he said consisted of “opening up economic opportunities for the Commonwealth.”

“Since we have a Republican governor, we should continue to have a Republican legislature to guarantee cooperation and swift actions on policies that we introduce,” Babauta said.

Former House Speaker Ben Fitial, who is seeking a comeback in the political arena, said if elected, he would personally focus on promoting free enterprise in the CNMI.

“Considering our proximity to the Asian region, we can provide more conducive atmosphere for foreign investments,” Fitial said.

When he was speaker of the House in the early 80s, Fitial pushed for the repeal of the Trust Territory’s Foreign Investment Act, which he said discriminated against foreign investors.

“With free enterprise, we could create more jobs in the private sector that would guarantee less burden on the government,” said Fitial, a candidate in District 3.

He discourages the government from hiring more people, saying that public revenues should be spent more on projects rather than personnel salaries.

“Our party adheres to the principles of free enterprise, less tax and less government,” Fitial concluded.

Rep. Melvin Faisao, who is seeking reelection also in District 3, said it’s about time the CNMI seriously consider diversifying its economy.

“Our tourism is declining, and we don’t know for how long we can keep the garment industry,” Faisao said. “We should look into the idea of putting up retirement industry in the CNMI. We have a lot to offer to make our place a retirement destination for retiring people from the mainland.”

Faisao also said voters should allow the Republican Party to complete its unfinished business in the Legislature, such as the free-trade zone bill which offers a package of incentives to foreign investors.

The free-trade zone bill has been passed by the House and is now pending in the Senate.

Three senatorial positions and 18 seats in the House of Representatives are at stake in the Nov. 6 midterm elections.

Although the Democratic Party did not field candidates for the Senate, its candidates are confident they can take over the Legislature from the Republicans.

Also in the race are Reform Party candidates and a few Independents.

For the nonpolitical positions, voters are to elect municipal councilors for Saipan, Tinian and Rota, as well as members of the Board of Education.