CNMI mourns loss of founding father Manuel A. Sablan

The CNMI is mourning the loss of Covenant negotiator and founding father Manuel A. Sablan.

“[He was] a dedicated and distinguished leader who served our community with unwavering commitment and integrity,” CNMI Gov. Arnold Palacios and Lt. Gov. David Apatang said in a statement. “His work during this crucial period laid the groundwork for the political and economic relationship we share with the United States today.”

The covenant established the NMI as a self-governing commonwealth and defined its relationship with America.

Sablan was also the executive director of the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority, where he focused on the Commonwealth’s economic growth.

“His absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him,” the Palacios-Apatang administration said.

They added, “On behalf of the people of the Commonwealth, we extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Sablan’s wife, Del, his children and grandchildren, family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. We stand with you in mourning the loss of a remarkable individual who devoted his life to the betterment of our islands.”

At an event about the covenant in March at the judiciary, Sablan remarked, “The covenant provides us basically everything that we need to correct whatever problem we are having.”

The governor has ordered flags across the CNMI to be flown at half-staff in honor of Sablan’s legacy.