The Deception Of The People On Election Day

On November 6, when we receive our ballots, we will find, in addition to the names of the candidates seeking office, two Senate Legislative initiatives. My major concern is how many of us have had the opportunity to read and discuss the meanings and implications of these two initiatives. Both of these initiatives will make changes in our Constitution. Please read them over carefully and consider then carefully before voting.

Initiative number 11-1 reads:

Do you approve the proposed constitutional amendment by legislative initiative, entitled, ” To amend Article XVIII, Section 5 of the Commonwealth Constitution to provide that only persons of Northern Marianas descent can vote on constitutional amendments affecting the protections against alienation of land in Article XII of the Constitution.”?

This initiative was offered by Senators: Thomas P. Villagomez; Ricardo S. Atalig; and Juan P, Tenorio. Dated March 17, 1998. Senate Action : Was referred to: Committee on Judiciary, Government and Law. Standing Committee Report No.: None. Second and Final Reading: November 13, 1998. House Action- Standing Committee Report No – None. First and Final Reading: June 24, 1999.

The second initiative numbered 11 -4 reads:

Do you approve the proposed constitutional amendment by legislative initiative, entitled, “To amend Article 11, Section 17 of the Commonwealth Constitution to establish an office of finance within the Legislative Bureau to control and regulate the expenditure of public funds by the Legislative Branch; to amend Article IV, Section 9 of the Commonwealth Constitution establish an office of finance within the Judicial Branch to control and regulate the expenditure of public funds by the Judicial Branch; and to amend Article X, Section 9 of the Commonwealth Constitution to remove the Department of Finance’s control and regulation of public funds appropriated to the Legislative Branch and Judicial Branch respectively.”?

Offered by Senator Edward U. Maratita. Date: January 22, 1999. Senate Action Second and Final Reading-. February 4, 1999. House Action-. Referred to Committee on Judicial and Government Operations. Standing Committee Report No.: 11-79 . First and Final Reading: July 27, 1999.

It is not my intention to debate here the pros and cons of the two proposed initiatives, but I am concerned that the general public has had little opportunity to read or discuss these two issues prior to voting. As an educated populace we must be given time and opportunity to read and discuss openly the merits and demerits of vital issues especially when tampering with the CNMI Constitution.

Our Constitution is a sacred document and the foundation of our laws, beliefs and aspirations for all of us, Any changes should be made carefully and after full deliberation by public hearings. Changing the Constitution should not be taken lightly.

It appears strange that public hearings are readily called for many less important issues, but none were called to discuss and evaluate public comments on the two initiatives. Also a question comes mind, what’s the real concern about Article XVIII that it needs amending immediately? Are we threatened? Why doesn’t the Legislature want the Finance Department controlling funds as it has been doing for so many years? Questions–Questions– Where are the answers?

Why have the newspapers written so little about the two initiatives? Those of you that attend pocket meetings, have these two initiatives been discussed? Why has there been so little public discussion on these two issues?

Again I reiterate: I am not proposing that you vote yes or no. However as a democracy and free people believing in an open government truthful and accountable to us, the general public, we must be allowed the opportunity to understand the issues before voting on them. Vote with your conscience on November 6.