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2 Dems, 1 GOP join Covenant leadership
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Posted on Jan 06 2006
Two Democrats and one Republican have joined seven Covenant Party members to form the next leadership of the House of Representatives, it was revealed yesterday.
Democrat Reps. Justo Quitugua and Florencio Deleon Guerrero and Republican Rep. Martin Ada have aligned themselves with the Covenant Party.
The move ensured that Gov.-elect Benigno R. Fitial’s group would rule the 15th House when it convenes on Monday, Jan. 9, 2006.
The formation of the 10-member alliance, according to Rep. Oscar Babauta, should put the House leadership issue to rest. “This is it,” said Babauta, who has been voted by the group to be the next House speaker.
Contrary to expectation, independent Rep. Ray Yumul opted not to join the leadership.
Yumul ran for his first elective office under the Covenant Party. It is believed that a military rule against political affiliation was the reason he sought re-election as an independent candidate in the Nov. 5, 2005 election. Yumul was an active U.S. military serviceman at the time of the election.
Yumul has reportedly wanted the position of vice speaker in the 15th House. But the majority eventually promised the post to Quitugua.
Babauta said this decision was in keeping with the Covenant Party’s inclusive policy in choosing officials for the incoming administration. “Having to form a cohesive leadership, we would like to extend consideration to each member,” he said.
Babauta added that the vice speakership was not necessarily the reason for Yumul’s decision “to remain outside of the leadership.”
“I don’t know of any particular reason he chose not to join the majority,” he said.
The Saipan Tribune tried but failed to reach Yumul for his comment.
Quitugua expressed belief that his constituents would benefit from his being an ally of the Covenant Party, which would be controlling both the executive and legislative branches.
Deleon Guerrero said he joined Babauta’s group in support of Quitugua’s decision. “I don’t want to be with the losing team,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ada said he would issue a statement regarding his decision after the inauguration ceremony on Monday.
The Republican Party, to which Ada belongs, wants Rep. Arnold Palacios to be the next speaker.
