Former lawmaker Maratita returns to House, vows to put people first

Former five-term lawmaker Janet Maratita is returning to the House of Representatives after winning in the Nov. 3 general elections, promising to put people first, review existing laws, and ensure that government services reach those who need them.

Maratita, who ran as an independent in Precinct 1, said her return to public office comes at a time when many Commonwealth residents are struggling with the economy, rising costs, and government services that she believes are falling short of public expectations.

"I'm very grateful to the people of precinct one for their trust in giving me that opportunity again to serve them," she told Marianas Press during an interview last Nov. 12 at her home in Dandan.

Maratita previously served five terms in the House, including one term as vice speaker. She unsuccessfully ran for the Senate in 2022 and later fell short in another election bid by just 19 votes.

She said her decision to return to the Legislature was driven by a desire to protect the public interest and address problems affecting ordinary residents.

One of her priorities is reviewing existing public laws to determine whether they are producing the intended benefits, particularly the Commonwealth's qualifying certificate program, which provides tax incentives to eligible investors.

Maratita said the QC law should be revisited in light of the CNMI's current economic challenges to determine whether promised investments are translating into tangible benefits for residents.

She also expressed concern about the Commonwealth Utilities Corp. and the recently approved power purchase agreement involving a proposed solar energy project.

Although she acknowledged not being fully familiar with the latest agreement, Maratita said she has concerns about its long-term implications, recalling her opposition to a previous power purchase agreement during her earlier tenure in the House.

She said she wants to examine how residents would benefit from such an arrangement, particularly one extending over 25 years.

Another priority is improving government services and ensuring that residents and businesses receive fair and timely treatment from public agencies.

Maratita questioned why residents must sometimes seek help from elected officials simply to obtain basic services from government offices.

"We have to demand that governments serve our people," she said.

She also raised concerns about businesses waiting months to receive government payments for goods and services already delivered, saying they should be compensated promptly.

Maratita said public services should be accessible to everyone regardless of political affiliation, race, or personal connections.

Her decision to run as an independent, she said, reflects her belief that political parties should not determine how lawmakers serve their constituents.

"I don't really believe that to be a public servant or to be a representative of the people, you need a party," she said.

Maratita said she intends to work with all members of the incoming House regardless of their political affiliations, adding that cooperation will be necessary to pass meaningful legislation.

Asked whether she would be interested in a leadership position, the returning lawmaker said she would accept the opportunity if offered but stressed that it was not her reason for seeking office.

She said voters elected her to represent their interests rather than pursue a leadership post.

Maratita also spoke about the recent death of her 39-year-old son, whom she raised as a single mother. She said the loss has been difficult, but her faith continues to sustain her.

The returning lawmaker said her personal experiences have strengthened her understanding of the struggles facing many families in the Commonwealth.

She thanked Precinct 1 voters for giving her another opportunity to serve and pledged to remain accessible to her constituents.

"I think we can all do better," she said.