The Northern Marianas Commonwealth Utilities Corporation chief executive is leaving the role to run again for governor in American Samoa next year.
Abe Utu Malae says he officially announced his decision with supporters last week to join American Samoa's gubernatorial race in November 2012.
Our correspondent, Mark Rabago, says his exit is a big loss as during his term at CUC, the emergency situation was lifted and he helped solve rolling blackouts.
He also says Abe Utu Malae recruited the right staff to help the utility recover from years of a bad administration, and will be missed by many locals.
"We wish him luck. Although it's going to be a big loss. As I said the Fitial administration already came out and said their full support for Malae to run for Governor. They'll have a transition but it's going to be tough one. They have to find someone capable to fill the big shoes that Malae will be leaving here, at the CUC."
Mark Rabago.
