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Candidates appeal for support
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Posted on Dec 01 2000
The two candidates in tomorrow’s primary have asked support from the people to give them the mandate to address the critical needs on Saipan.
“We’ve been working hard,” said Rep. Antonio M. Camacho in a separate interview yesterday. “People may not come out and vote because this is just a primary, but we are asking them to exercise their right.”
He expressed confidence of winning the two-way race, citing his platform of helping the people of Saipan as his main priority once elected into office.
Among his plans are to establish precinct commissioners to provide the public easy access to the delivery of government services; to promote environmental program like island beautification; to create outreach programs for indigents; and to protect health and safety of residents.
But if he loses, he will throw his support to his opponent, former congressman Juan B. Tudela, to ensure unity of the party. “At the same time, I don’t see the reasons why he should not support me if I win,” said the 52-year old congressman.
Mr. Tudela, a 64-year-old retired government employee and a two-term member of the House of Representatives in the 1980’s, has promised to provide for the needs of islanders if given a mandate as mayor of Saipan.
He ran as independent in the 1997 mayoralty election, eventually losing to incumbent Mayor Jose C. Sablan who was the GOP candidate.
He said that he decided to try his luck anew after encouragement from his supporters and other people whom he said believed that the Democrats can wrestle control of the municipality from the Republicans.
Commonwealth Utilities Corp. Board Chair Jesus T. Guerrero has reportedly backed out of the Democrats’ primary to run as independent next year, while Henry I. Sablan is seeking the nomination of the Republican Party. (BS)
