The Commonwealth Election Commission told KUAM News that Daniel Quitugua is the only person who filed a nominating petition for Rota’s special election for the Board of Education last Friday.

July 26 was the filing deadline.

“We will still conduct the 2024 special election,” said Kayla Igitol, the executive director of the Commonwealth Election Commission.

Earlier this month, CNMI Gov. Arnold Palacios wrote to the CEC on Tuesday declaring the vacancy after then-BOE chair Herman Atalig stepped down last month to prioritize his health.

KUAM has reached out to Quitugua for comment.

Early voting begins August 7. The special election is set for Aug. 14.