Overview:
Koror’s 13th General Election delivered both a tight race for governor and a historic breakthrough for women in leadership. With absentee ballots now counted, the results reveal not only the winners but a shift in the state’s political landscape.
By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau (Nov. 13, 2025) — Incumbent Governor Eyos Rudimch emerged as the winner in Koror State’s 13th General Election, leading challenger Alan T. Marbou by 183 votes, according to unofficial results released after the Nov. 11 polls.
After final tabulation that included absentee ballots, Rudimch received 1,510 votes to Marbou’s 1,327. Koror State law requires that all absentee received by the end of the election day, be tallied as final. The Palau Election Commission reported receiving 315 absentee votes that included walk-in and confined voters. There will be no counting after 7 days like other states or national elections.
Eyos Rudimch re-elected to a second term after a close race.
“We are grateful for your continued belief in the work we are doing to build a safer, more resilient Koror,” Rudimch said, expressing appreciation to voters for their trust.
Marbou, a veteran candidate, conceded early and congratulated Rudimch and the leading legislative candidates, saying “the people of Koror has expressed their wishes through their votes.” He called for cooperation and unity as Koror moves forward, adding, “Let’s come together and support those who have been chosen as our leaders.”
Alan Marbou, former Koror State Speaker and gubernatorial candidate, conceded to Eyos in a close race saying that people of Koror have spoken.
Reflecting on his campaign experience, Marbou said, “I learned something about myself — that fighting the good fight is always the winning fight. Trust the process and keep the faith.”
Legislative and Hamlet Seat Results
In the race for five At-Large seats, Millan Isacc leads with 1,647 votes, followed by Tange Mariur (1,615), Marie Nabeyama (1,525), Kyonori Tellames (1,384), and Jason Nolan (1,368).
For hamlet seats, the leaders are:
- Ngermid: Tito Ringang
- Ngerkesoaol: Polycarp Marcil
- Ngerchemai: Job Kikuo
- Iyebukel: Devon Andreas
- Idid: Olkeriil Yaoch
- Meketii: Ltelatk Fritz
- Ikelau: Richard Alonz
- Ngerbeched: Alonz Moses
- Dngeronger: Shannon Etpison
- Medalaii: Jennifer Akiwo
- Meyuns: Sarah Sugiyama
- Ngerkebesang: Rhinehart Silas
Koror State now had set a record with five women in its legislature. It is the first in Palau, both state and national level, to have the highest number of female lawmakers elected to office at one time since the establishment of constitutional government.
Voters Praise Participation and Leadership
“This year’s state election went well. All the candidates were passionate and dedicated,” said one voter. “It really showed Palauan pride — from their state to their hang.”
Another voter remarked, “The candidates’ families really showed out with their support. I like the state elections more than the national one,” laughing.
A third voter reflected on the meaning of the election, saying, “I feel proud that the people of Koror turned out to vote. This election showed that we care deeply about our state’s future and want to be part of shaping it. Leadership is about service. I hope our new leaders will listen to the people and work with honesty and transparency, because that’s what true stewardship means.”
Voter turnout and enthusiasm were praised by many residents who saw the election as a strong display of civic pride.
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