Henry Falan: Letter to the People
/Colonia, Yap 96943
June 14, 2022
My dear friends and fellow Yapese –
Please accept my humblest apology for not reaching out to you in the months after my removal from office. It has been a very difficult time for me and my family, but I am finally coming out on the other side of this outrageous and illegal action instigated by my opponents from the last election.
I want to thank you for your support beginning with your vote that put me in office nearly four years ago and extending to the petition that so many of you signed calling for my reinstatement to the office of governor.
Sadly, the majority within the legislature ignored your plea, and even threatened one of their members to change his vote to get what they wanted. This is one more indication of their self-centered, lawless leadership.
They refused to accept the will of the people and moved toward my removal one step at a time from the beginning of my term in office. Their actions were influenced and supported by outside foreign entities intent on taking possession of our beloved island. Those foreign entities are now moving more aggressively into the Pacific region and will undoubtedly be back when the border gates are opened if they are not stopped.
It’s up to you to run for office and elect those who will represent you and your goals for a better life now and in future generations.
After long and hard consideration and discussion with my family, friends and supporters, I have decided not to be among the candidates in the upcoming election.
I have been told that some are planning to write my name into the ballot. I encourage you instead to recruit and cast your vote for candidates who will carry forth my goals of accountability, honesty and transparency.
I have served for many years, and it is now time for the younger generation to take the reins of government for our state. If you are interested in running for office, please reach out to me if you would like my guidance and support. At this stage of my life, I feel my best role is in the capacity of sharing what I have learned and experienced during my nearly 50 years of public service.
I remain steadfast in my support of a democratic society; a democratic society that encourages active participation by all citizens without fear of retribution and unwavering acceptance of the right of free speech, freedom of the press and personal accountability.
Beginning now, beginning today, I urge you to stand up and speak out when you see wrong and when you disagree with those who are your public servants. They were put into office by you and you have the right and the duty to ensure they are representing your best interests, not theirs.
It is now up to you to ensure that the next election this November brings with it honest and open elected and appointed leaders who have only the good of you, the citizens of Yap, in their hearts and minds.
With humble and sincere gratitude, I remain,
Henry Falan
Former Governor, State of Yap
