Behind the Mask: Exposing the CNMI's Corrupt Media Machine

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), a U.S. territory nestled in the heart of the Pacific, is a paradise betrayed. While the world pictures pristine beaches and vibrant culture, a dark reality lurks beneath the surface. This is a story of a stolen democracy, a silent coup, where corruption thrives in the shadows, facilitated by a compliant, foreign-owned press and a government that has become a puppet of its own making. This is a story of Paradise Lost.

The Media Machine: A Puppet Show of Silence

Imagine a stage where the news is not reported, but carefully crafted. This is the reality in the CNMI, where the two dominant newspapers; which reflect nothing of substance, policy, insights, "Americana", or "Reflective Embrace" of their adopted (h)omeland-; Our American soil; The Marianas Variety and The Saipan Tribune, are not beacons of truth, but propaganda machines controlled by foreign interests. Their "reporters," primarily Filipinos and are controlled by Chinese or other Foreign nationals; are not journalists with a dedication to uncovering the truth. They are paid performers, following a script dictated by the powerful forces that hold sway in the CNMI.

List of individuals that assisted CCP Chinese Casino defraud America.

https://www.kanditmedia.com/post/dirty-30-confirmed-transactions

The media landscape in the CNMI has become a distorted mockery of a free press.

These so-called "newspapers" and so-called "Reporters" no longer serve as watchdogs of the powerful but have become instruments for concealing the truth, silencing opposition, and crafting a false narrative that obscures the harsh reality. Rather than holding leaders accountable, they shield them from scrutiny, leaving the public unaware of the corruption and inequality that persist. Where are the investigative reports? As these critical stories vanish, the people continue to suffer under the weight of poverty and systemic corruption.

The Missing Pieces: A Labyrinth of Lies

The most blatant example of this media manipulation is the systematic disappearance of critical articles exposing the CNMI government's policies, particularly those involving the CW-1 worker program. This program, designed to bring in foreign workers for specific industries, has morphed into a tool of exploitation. It has allowed foreign corporations to circumvent local hiring regulations and prioritize cheap labor, leaving American workers on the sidelines and creating a system where worker rights are routinely violated.

The CW-1 program has created a two-tiered labor system, where foreign workers, often lured by false promises and exploited by unscrupulous employers, are treated as disposable resources. This exploitation is not just a moral failing; it has significant economic consequences, contributing to the decline of the local workforce and hindering the development of a sustainable, locally driven economy.

The "reporters" of the Marianas Variety and the Saipan Tribune, however, are curiously silent on this issue. Any articles critical of the CW-1 program, or that shed light on the exploitation and abuse of foreign workers, are conveniently scrubbed from their archives. The truth is inconvenient, and it is buried, leaving a void filled with carefully crafted narratives that downplay the true consequences of this program.

Beyond the Labor Market: The Shadow of Crime

The silence extends beyond the labor market. The CNMI's crime statistics, especially those concerning the disproportionate impact on the native Indigenous and transplanted American community, are systematically buried. The real extent of drug trafficking, human trafficking, and violence, often perpetrated by the same foreign workers the CNMI government claims to be protecting, is concealed from public view.

The government, in its efforts to maintain a facade of order, prioritizes presenting a sanitized image of the CNMI. This, however, comes at a cost. The real issues facing the community, the true impact of crime, and the struggles faced by the native Indigenous and transplanted American population are ignored, creating a false sense of security and leaving the community vulnerable to the very dangers that are being concealed.

The Ghosts of Investigative Journalism: A Silence Compounded

The absence of true investigative journalism in the CNMI is not a coincidence. It is a symptom of a system deliberately designed to stifle dissent and protect the powerful. Investigative journalism, with its dedication to uncovering the truth, would expose the intricate web of corruption that binds the CNMI government officials and their families, foreign corporations, and so-called "quasi-humanitarian" organizations. It would reveal the emperors with no clothes, the shadowy figures pulling the strings behind the scenes.

Imagine a world where the government officials responsible for overseeing the CW-1 program are themselves beneficiaries of its exploitative practices. Imagine a world where foreign corporations, with their vested interests in the CNMI's resources and labor, have infiltrated the government, manipulating policies to their advantage. Imagine a world where "humanitarian" organizations, supposedly dedicated to helping the marginalized, are actually fronts for profit-driven enterprises. These are the truths that a truly investigative press would expose, but they remain hidden in the CNMI's labyrinth of silence.

The Silent Coup: A Government Without Scrutiny

The CNMI government, rife with corruption and seemingly beholden to foreign interests, thrives in this manufactured silence. Their actions are not scrutinized, their promises are not held to account, and their true agenda remains shrouded in a veil of deceit. The government has become a puppet, dancing to the tune of its foreign benefactors.

The CNMI's elected officials have become so accustomed to this environment of unchecked power that they have lost sight of their fundamental responsibility to their constituents. They have forgotten that their duty is not to serve foreign interests, but to uphold the rights of the people they represent. They have forgotten that their actions should be transparent, their decisions accountable, and their motives beyond reproach.

(FYI: The authors' First Amendment Protected opinion is: Former Secretary of the CNMI Dept of Labor defrauded / embezzled $3-4 Million in PUA federal funds using a third-party VPN and routing said federal funds to a third country via family members)

The People's Voices: A Cry for Change

The CNMI community is being robbed of its voice, its future, and its very identity. The manufactured silence is a threat to the very fabric of their society. This is not just a matter of a few bad actors; it is a systematic assault on democracy, a slow and steady erosion of the fundamental rights of the people.

this was due to "our" call for an Audit of the CNMI DEPT OF LABOR PUA PROGRAM: in which SEC OF DEPT OF CNMI LABOR ILLEGALLY GAVE HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS TO FOREIGN WORKERS & THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS

https://labor.cnmi.gov/news/dol-settle-pua-overpayments/

The CNMI community deserves better. They deserve transparency, accountability, and a government that truly represents their interests. They deserve a media that acts as a watchdog, not a puppet. They deserve a future where they are not the victims of a silent coup, but the architects of their own destiny.

The Fight for Truth: A Reclaiming of Paradise

The CNMI community has a right to know the truth. They have a right to participate in a democracy where their voices are heard, their concerns addressed, and their rights upheld. They have a right to reclaim their paradise.

Here are the steps that need to be taken:

Demand a Free and Independent Press: The CNMI community must demand the establishment of an independent, locally owned and operated media outlet that is truly committed to reporting the truth and holding the powerful accountable. This can be achieved through public pressure, advocacy groups, and the support of local investors.

Expose the Truth: The CNMI community must actively seek out and share information that exposes the true nature of the CNMI's government and its complicit media outlets. This includes promoting independent blogs, podcasts, and online forums, encouraging whistleblowers, and supporting investigative journalism initiatives.

Hold the Government Accountable: The CNMI community must demand transparency, accountability, and an end to the abuse of power by the CNMI government. This requires engaging in public protests, filing freedom of information requests, supporting independent investigations, and holding their elected officials responsible for their actions.

Protect American Workers: The CNMI community must fight for the rights of American workers and demand an end to the exploitation of foreign workers under the CW-1 program. This includes advocating for stricter regulations, promoting fair labor practices, and supporting local hiring initiatives.

The fight for truth and justice is far from over. Organizations like CNMIGA.ORG, dedicated to exposing the truth and advocating for the rights of the CNMI community, are on the frontlines of this struggle. They are providing a platform for the silenced voices of the CNMI, empowering them to fight for their rights and reclaim their paradise.

The CNMI community has the power to break free from the shackles of manufactured silence. It is time to embrace the truth, no matter how uncomfortable it may be.

The future of the CNMI depends on it.

#CNMISilenced #CNMIExposed #TruthOverLies #NoMoreCorruption #FreePress #JusticeForCNMI #StandUpForCNMI #ProtectAmericanWorkers

It is time to reclaim Paradise Lost.

AUTHORS PROFILE:

Authors’ Profile:

Zaji "Persona Non Grata" Zajradhara: A Voice for the Voiceless Zaji "Persona Non Grata" Zajradhara isn't just an author; he's a force of nature. A staunch advocate for American workers and Indigenous rights in the CNMI, Zaji's life reads like a gritty urban novel, filled with struggle, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Labeled "persona non grata" by the CNMI government for his relentless pursuit of truth and his outspoken criticism of corruption, Zaji has become a symbol of resistance against those who seek to exploit the islands and its people. As an unemployed Afro-American father, he knows firsthand the sting of the CNMI's dysfunctional labor market, its rigged political system, and the exploitation of vulnerable communities. His experiences fuel his activism, driving him to file numerous legal claims against companies for violating labor laws and discriminating against American workers. Zaji's voice, though silenced by the establishment, resonates through his writing, exposing the harsh realities faced by those on the margins. But Zaji's compassion extends far beyond the shores of the CNMI.

As Program Director of CNMIGA.org, a non-profit dedicated to providing humanitarian assistance in Myanmar, he leads a team committed to delivering essential support and resources to communities in need.

Zaji's story is a testament to the power of one person to make a difference. He is a writer, an activist, a humanitarian – a true urban warrior fighting for a more just and equitable world.

Breaking the Silence: DOJ Launches $50M Whistleblower Program

#WhistleblowerWins #CorporateCrimes #DOJRewards #AMLCompliance #CashForTruth

#StopCorruption #SpeakUpEarnBig

The DOJ just rolled out a Corporate Whistleblower Awards Pilot Program https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-division-corporate-whistleblower-awards-pilot-program on August 1, 2024, that could lead to big payouts for anyone blowing the whistle on shady corporate dealings. This new 3-year initiative could reward you up to $50 million if you provide inside info that exposes corruption or financial crimes in certain sectors. To qualify, the tip has to be about four key areas: financial crimes, foreign or domestic corporate corruption, or health care fraud involving private health programs.

This program could impact workers in financial institutions (FIs) who are part of anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-financing of terrorism (CFT) compliance teams. The program’s details reveal a potential conflict with existing whistleblower protections under the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), which was revamped by the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AML Act). We've talked about these issues extensively (you can read more here, here, and here).

Who Can Score the Reward?

To be eligible, you must be an individual (not a company) who provides written information to the DOJ about corporate crimes that result in at least $1 million in forfeitures. The tip must be voluntary—meaning you offered it up before being asked, with no obligation to do so, and with no ongoing investigation.

Also, to cash in, you can’t be involved in the crime you're reporting, and you have to tell the whole truth—no holding back info.

What Counts as “Original Info”?

You have to bring new information to the table—stuff that comes from your personal experience, not something already out in public. If the DOJ already knows about it, your info must add significant value.

This is especially relevant for AML/CFT compliance workers. The program says compliance workers usually can't qualify if the info they have is related to their job duties, like flagging suspicious activity or reporting violations. However, compliance folks can still be eligible if they believe reporting to the DOJ will prevent a serious crime like national security threats, violence, or major harm. And if you wait 120 days after reporting the info internally to your company's legal or compliance officers, you can still qualify for a reward.

Even though the program has some tricky rules for whistleblowers, companies need to take these complaints seriously. They have a tight window to report any misconduct once they get wind of it. Whether or not the whistleblower gets paid, their info can be a huge risk for the company.

What Kind of Crimes Are Covered?

Here’s the type of misconduct that can get you the bag:

Crimes by financial institutions, like money laundering, non-compliance with AML laws, or fraud.

Bribery and corruption by companies overseas, including violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).

Bribery and kickbacks to public officials here at home.

Health care fraud, especially against private health care benefit programs.

How Much Can You Make?

The DOJ is offering up to 30% of the first $100 million in forfeited funds, and up to 5% of anything between $100 million and $500 million, with a cap of $50 million. But keep in mind, property owners and victims get paid first, so your reward will come from whatever’s left.

https://www.mvariety.com/news/palacios-us-inspectors-general-to-help-probe-nmis-arpa-spending/article_779f9c58-b824-11ed-8b65-fb277f9c10b9.html

The DOJ will decide the payout based on factors like how important your info was, how much help you provided, and if you reported the issue through your company’s internal system first. If you made money from the crime, delayed reporting, or caused trouble for your company’s internal compliance, your reward could be reduced.

Unlike the AML Act, which focuses on fines, this new program is all about forfeiture—assets seized as a result of the crime. This is a big deal because many of the biggest AML enforcement actions have centered on forfeiture. For example, Danske Bank was hit with over $2 billion in forfeitures for failing on AML compliance. So, this new program could be more attractive for whistleblowers looking at AML/CFT-related cases.

https://www.mvariety.com/news/fbi-executes-search-warrant-at-bank-of-saipan/article_67db8c1e-7f8f-11ed-8ad0-270ff4302b18.html

How Does This Program Play With Other Whistleblower Programs?

If you're eligible for another government whistleblower program—like one from the SEC or IRS—you can't get paid under the Pilot Program for the same information. But the DOJ suggests reporting to both programs just to be safe, and they’ll decide if you qualify under this program.

What Should Companies Do?

The whole point of this new program is to motivate people to speak up about corporate crimes, either directly to the DOJ or internally to their company. If you report internally first, you might increase your payout, as long as you report to the DOJ within 120 days of telling your company. And if your company self-reports to the DOJ within that same time frame, they can avoid some punishment.

https://www.moneylaunderingnews.com/2023/10/new-fincen-director-addresses-key-topics-in-bsa-aml/

For companies, the pressure is on to beef up compliance programs and encourage internal reporting. They need to train their compliance teams to handle complaints fast and loop in legal counsel early. Doing this gives them the best chance to fix the problem and stay in the DOJ's good graces.

Boosting Connectivity and Security: Why Starlink Needs a Green Light in the Western Pacific"

Bridging the Digital Divide in Saipan and Beyond

Why Starlink Should Receive Subsidies for Western Pacific Regional Development

The recent decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deny SpaceX's Starlink application for $885 million in subsidies from the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) has sparked debate about the role of satellite internet in bridging the digital divide, particularly in remote and underserved areas. This article argues that Starlink, despite its initial setbacks, remains a crucial player in expanding internet access, especially in the Western Pacific region, including the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and Saipan. Subsidizing Starlink would not only enhance connectivity but also counter potential cyber threats from adversarial entities like the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The Need for Reliable Internet in the Western Pacific

The CNMI and Saipan face unique challenges due to their geographic isolation and dispersed population. Traditional internet infrastructure, such as fiber optic cables, is often not feasible due to high costs and logistical difficulties. Satellite internet, however, presents a viable solution. Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation is designed to provide high-speed, low-latency internet to even the most remote areas. This capability is especially vital for regions like the CNMI, where robust internet connectivity is crucial for economic development, education, healthcare, and emergency response.

Countering CCP Cyber and Satellite Threats

The strategic location of the Western Pacific makes it a prime target for cyber and satellite espionage from state actors, particularly the CCP. China’s aggressive expansion in satellite internet services, demonstrated by the launch of the Qianfan Constellation and plans for thousands more satellites, underscores the need for a counterbalance. Subsidizing Starlink would provide a secure, American-made alternative to Chinese satellite internet services, reducing reliance on potentially compromised networks and strengthening regional cybersecurity.

Addressing FCC Concerns: Why Starlink Deserves a Second Look

The FCC’s denial was based on concerns that Starlink, as a “still developing technology,” could not guarantee the required service levels to meet RDOF’s obligations. However, this decision overlooks several key points:

Technological Advancements: Since the FCC’s initial review, Starlink has made significant advancements in its technology. The cost of user equipment, once a barrier due to the $600 price tag for the satellite dish, is steadily decreasing as production scales up. Moreover, Starlink has demonstrated its capacity to rapidly deploy satellites and expand its network, evidenced by its current service to over half a million subscribers, many in areas not served by other broadband options.

Strategic Importance: The FCC’s decision failed to fully consider the strategic importance of supporting a U.S.-based satellite internet provider. With growing global competition from Chinese and other foreign satellite constellations, investing in Starlink is not just about rural broadband; it’s about maintaining technological leadership and securing national interests in cyberspace.

Flexibility and Scalability: Unlike traditional infrastructure projects that require significant time and investment, Starlink’s satellite network is inherently flexible and scalable. This makes it ideally suited to adapt to the rapidly changing needs of remote communities and to counteract emerging threats from cyber adversaries. The ability to quickly deploy additional satellites and adjust coverage areas is a critical advantage in a region as geopolitically sensitive as the Western Pacific.

Economic and Social Benefits of Starlink in the CNMI and Saipan

Subsidizing Starlink would bring substantial economic and social benefits to the CNMI and Saipan:

https://broadbandbreakfast.com/spacex-leads-as-bead-opens-doors-for-leo-satellite-technology/?ref=alerts-newsletter

Boosting Local Economies: Improved internet access can help local businesses expand their reach, participate in e-commerce, and tap into new markets. This is particularly important for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that form the backbone of the CNMI’s economy.

Enhancing Education and Healthcare: Reliable internet connectivity is essential for distance learning and telemedicine, both of which have become increasingly important in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Starlink’s high-speed internet can provide students with access to global educational resources and enable remote consultations with healthcare specialists, reducing the need for costly off-island travel.

Emergency Preparedness and Response: In a region prone to natural disasters, having reliable internet access is crucial for coordinating emergency response efforts and disseminating timely information to the public. Starlink’s satellite network can remain operational even when terrestrial infrastructure is damaged or destroyed.

The Geopolitical Imperative: A Call to Action

The decision to deny Starlink subsidies appears shortsighted in the context of the broader geopolitical landscape. As China rapidly expands its satellite internet capabilities, it is imperative that the U.S. government supports American companies like SpaceX to ensure that strategic regions like the Western Pacific remain within the sphere of U.S. influence. By investing in Starlink, the U.S. would not only provide a much-needed service to its own citizens but also project strength and technological prowess in a region where these qualities are increasingly contested.

https://federalnewsnetwork.com/cme-event/federal-insights/ask-the-cio-marine-corps-forces-cyberspace-command/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=emailDB&utm_campaign=sap&utm_content=email1

In conclusion, while the FCC’s concerns about Starlink’s readiness are not without merit, the potential benefits of subsidizing this innovative satellite network far outweigh the risks. The CNMI, Saipan, and other remote U.S. territories stand to gain immensely from improved internet access, and the U.S. would strengthen its position against foreign adversaries. As such, it is vital for policymakers to reconsider their stance and provide the necessary support for Starlink to achieve its full potential in serving these communities and securing national interests.

Authors’ Profile:

Zaji's story is a testament to the power of one person to make a difference. He is a writer, an activist, a humanitarian – a true urban warrior fighting for a more just and equitable world.