New Secretary of Health and Social Affairs Takes Oath of Office

Palikir, Pohnpei, 4 March 2016 – In an official swearing-in ceremony for the newly appointed Secretary of the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs, Mrs. Magdalena A. Walter was sworn in by President Peter M. Christian who administered the oath of Office at the President’s Conference room.

In the ceremony that was officiated on Friday morning, President Christian first took the time to give thanks and gratitude for the recent rains of the past few days; a welcomed occurrence during this El Nino drought period which has impacted the Nation.  He continued by congratulating the new Cabinet Member, and expressed his optimism and confidence in Secretary Walter’s abilities to effectively discharge the duties of her appointed position.  

Secretary Walter, in her remarks following the swearing-in ceremony, thanked President Christian for his confidence in nominating her, and assured him, the Vice President, and the staff of her department, of her commitment and dedication to carrying out her new responsibilities.  She also took the time to thank members of the 19^th Congress for their action in confirming her nomination.

Prior to her appointment, Secretary Walter was a Pohnpei State Senator from 12 January 2004 to 11 January 2016.

Also in attendance to witness and participate in the brief ceremony were the new Secretary’s husband and local businessman, Mr. Wilbur Walter, members of their family, Vice President George, other Cabinet members and National Agency Heads, Pohnpei State Senator Neth, and other staff and officials of the National Government.