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By Rolynda Jonathan
Top officials of Palau’s Bureau of Public Safety have been placed on a paid 30-day administrative leave effective immediately.
Minister of Justice and Vice President Tony Bells placed both Director Norvert Yano and Deputy Director Jennifer Olgeriil on leave to allow the Ministry to find some clarity of issues found during the new administration’s transition phase.
One of the major issues found was that 99 percent of personnel interviewed were confused as to who is in charge or who should they report to within the Bureau said Governor Ellender Ngirameketii, head of the subcommittee on justice. Questions over the management style of both officials are also being raised including the duties and responsibilities of both positions.
The Republic’s Attorney General Victoria Roe will act as the Director of the Bureau until Bells makes a final decision. Ngirameketii said there’s no conflict of interest or violation with Roe acting as the Director as she will be working with division chiefs, officials and the Minister similar to what she already does as an AG.
The committee recommended the Deputy Director position to be nullified, however Minister Bells will make his final decision within 30 days.