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Letters and Editorial Policies
Letters and Editorial Policies
Elderly abuse is rampant in the islands. I regret, that we have developed a sense of entitled speech. Unlike, other cultures, we demand that our old dudes be treated with much respect. Just overheard from the governors mental mentors, the governor wants evey senator to go get a real job---LOL---
Se malo foi Togiola, ua fia ata foi lenei fanau. Ua uma upu ma tala.
Paulo
This is the most important issue in all of the territory, progressive change must be implemented or else our culture and way of life as we know it could be in jeopardy or lost in the fog of skepticism/naivism ?
with all due respect to our local cultural leaders, I strongly believed in debating the issues in a competitve process. It is a basic fundamental right of a true representative democracy, when important issues are discussed, evaluated and put into the fire, reasonable and logical results emanates.
When Senators are elected by the mojority, it's a good feeling that all not the few have a part of it. It is the fullfilment of one's inalienable rights/ oblications and citizenship, that He/She is part of something that is so important. Resulting, People feel better and supportive of its policies toward progrssive growth.
I've been a strong advocate of local leaders as culture consultants advising the fono in such matters and could very well asserted their cultural influence/experiences in formulating inportant policies/issues. However The notion that our ancestors upholding/securing our culture by clinging on the old fashion way, with due respect, is naive and irresponsible, we just can not hold on the old ways, or return to it, and expecting progress and better results.
This is 21st century, we must find ways to improve and make things better. We must not be held bondage by such untrue and fictional conclusion that such notion guranteed the safegaurding of our prestigious culture and way of life. In fact electing senators by the ballot box in the general election not only brings out the best of our culture, our faith, our litercy, our trust, and whom we are has nothing to do with deminishing our culture nor depreciating our way of life! in fact we all benefitted and move FORWARD!
I'm with the Governor on this one. It's important folks that we have a call of duty and a devine obligation to ELECT our leaders not/never selecting by the few!
respectfully SL Unutoa.
We see here a situation where real potential for elimination of powerful Gubernatorial candidates is before us. If the court enforces the law which is very clear in this situation,the remaining Gubernatorial candidates will be Save and Jones.
What does this mean? It means no run off and change is guaranteed. It means the people that have been in power and the corner stone for all corruption in the territory will be powerless for at least four years. Or will they? If they get to Save or Jones and make a deal, they could be back in power but behind the scenes.
It would seem unlikely that they would turn to Save and Sandra since they were the cause of action that got this disqualification process happening. But it also seems unlikely that they would go to Jones because he is a palagi and which means they could not control him or his actions through cultural channels.
They could try to broker a deal with Tuika but Tuika is not the front runner. He is the Lt. So a deal with Tuika may not fly with Jones.
With out this control they (the status quo) are still powerless.
It is also unlikely that the super powers of American Samoa are going to sit out the next four years and do nothing. So it is my opinion that they will swallow their pride and go to Save and Sandra to make a deal because it is still possible to control a Samoan leader using Samoan Cultural channels.
But what about Jones? If he wins will he unleash Tuika to audit and prosecute freely all the old corruption? Or will he do as he said he would do and forgive the past to focus on the future?
Jones vs Save guarantees change. But will Lolo and Faoa get to them to make a deal limiting real change? I would like to see this question asked of both Save and Jones in a public forum. Will they deal with the power houses of Lolo and Faoa to assure a win?
Has American Samoa every seen anything like this in the history of the free elections? Im one voter that is amazed and excited for change. I have not made up my mind to go for Save or Jones. I would like to speak to them both in person so I know what kind of men they really are. Forget rumors and gossip. I want to talk to the man behind the name.
Are you kind enough and strong enough to lead my country?
Our Elder Fathers & Mothers in the Fono are abosulutely correct in that we should continue with the election / selection of our Senators by traditional Samoan custom according to our traditional districts.
Doing so will ensure the preservation of our promised Samoan culture. Anything otherwise will be the beginning of the end of our sacred culture.
Our traditional method of selecting our Senators should NEVER EVER be changed.
Thank you Elder Fathers & Mothers of our Senate who are keeping our Samoan culture intact for me, my children, and my children's children. And thank you for honoring the promise of our Fathers who have already gone on before us.
May God Bless us all.
I applaud Save and Sandra for what they are doing in the midst of everything that is going on. It is good to see this team stand firm in upholding the law right from the start. A new governor has not been elected yet and here the S & S team is showing courage and integrity by ensuring that the law is being upheld; this is a wonderful display of leadership especially within our SAMOAN community.
Our people should not just look at this case or this act as it is but to take a deeper look at what it stands for. Many a times has political power been misused and inappropriate acts been conducted right in front of us (ex: mistresses, misuse of funds, lying).... Weird thing is, they know we see them....... (Samoa is actually pretty small). I know a lot of such things are done elsewhere but I'm talking about the people that we call "mo Tama o le atun'u." The people we call fathers or mothers of our culture, our villages, our people.
Dont get me wrong though, I am not referring to all of them but to those who do not live accordingly to the standards that they CHOSE to follow when they decided to take on such an position of influence. Such positions of influence does come with power and other great things but it is not for their personal gain but for the betterment of the people.
So far, the gov't is in debt, Medicare is still 1970's, sexual crimes burglaries and drugs are common now. I mean after the billions of dollars we received from the US over the past years the Samoan people and the community are not living as they received such funds. I mean, some potholes that we drive in on the main road have been there for over 5 years and the money the people gave the gov't to fix it is paying for a nice expensive vacation off-island.
The decision made by S & S and their team is admirable because it is telling the people that we should stand up to being treated unfairly and that we have the right to equality despite how big the bully is. Good job team S $ S! Good job leading by example. This is what the people need, more action.
I pray the best for American Samoa.
So what was your research which led you to endorse Save and Sandra? Because they are 'clean'? Half the candidates running are pretty good citizens of Am. Samoa with no bad records. Havent heard anything bad about Tuika! And why is Afoa not qualified? Because he endorsed Togiola? That's it? ... Anything else? If you actually do some REAL research, you will find ALOT of these candidates' lives intertwine personally and professionally... That includes Save and Sandra!
I find it interesting that Tamaoletumua states that "after reading all the bio's.. Etc of all the candidates" the best candidate would be Lolo .. But then goes on to say some pretty witless comments about the other candidates... Really?!?! Did you REALLY read ALL the candidates platforms and bios?
...I'm afraid ... you just don't understand what you're reading and pretending like you have an idea when you actually don't. I am even willing to bet my next paycheck on the fact that you have no clue what the other candidates platforms are... And most likely don't even know what LOLOs platform is!!
Why don't you educate yourself by ACTUALLY reading what each of the different candidates have to offer? ... maybe talk about why YOUR candidate is the best and most qualified person for the job at hand!!
Like the saying goes "Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance"
~best of luck to all the candidates!!
Did you do a full research on all the candidates or just on Afoa and Lei? I think you are probably just related to one of them. And they are the most qualified because they are lawyers? Togiola was also a lawyer. I guess based on your research...he should have steered our island well. I guess you should have more on the qualification list before you determine who the best choice should be. Didnt Afoa endorse Togiola after the last election? Hmmm.... I think there is yet a better choice out there....and it sure is not going to be Lolo.
I dont want our first business at hand to be our govenor defending himself against the federal government. He already has enough on his plate, and enough people to support like his wife and girlfriend ...seriously???? Really is that the kind of leader that should be in office?
I say vote for the team that is already striving to make people accountable for their actions, and the team that is doing things the right way...not the way that it has always been. Save and Sandra have been underestimated but they are showing some great courage right now and they have clean records and an extensive background.
Our hearts to this boy. We are reminded how life is like vapor. O God, Let me count the days of this lifetime and reminded that you are the time keeper.
Paulo
May God be with you as you play your most dificult game. May God comfort you and family during this most difficult of time. God bless.
Togiola is the Problem. When your looking for men of country whom God has made, don't look to Togiola. That's not a Leader.
MALO LAVA LE TAUMAFAI PISI BOYS. KEEP IT UP & PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE. MUCH LOVE FROM ALL THE PISI BOYS UP HEA MAINLAND. REMEMBER "PISI NEVER EVER DOWN". MANUIA LE AU BOYS & VAAI TAVILI NA UA SAU E PIKI MAI OE LOL.....
i've been reading all these comments about who should be the best candidates? But what happens is we never took the initiative to sit down and think of all these candidates promises. I am sick and tired of promises that never came true. I think it's time we give Afoa a chance. It's been a long time and no one bother's to give him a chance. I believe in him because he has helped me in the past. Where was Lolo and Lemanu when i needed help, How about Faoa and Taufete'e?
Afoa and Le'i to atu lou pulou ia te oulua. Fa'atuatua i le Atua, e to'atele tagata o lo'o sapasapaia oulua.
So, if someone ask me who should i vote for? I vote for the person who helped me individually. Did not care what my status in society, or how young i am. He helped me out and I am forever greatful for that.
You got my Vote!
Afoa and Le'i !
I really enjoy reading this article, the author really nailed it when he/she connected the story of La'auli and TUisamoa's Daughters. I'm so proud of it because i am a true descendant of the Tuisamoa Family. it's good to know that people still use this famous saying now a days. I hope the future generations will be able to comprehend our language and be able to understand it
Good JOb!
Fa'afetai Tamaoletumua for the explanation. The question was to get information on the issue. Who do YOU think is a puppet? And who are the puppeteers? What is your input on the 'draft report' (internal memo)?
I did my researched on Afoa & Le'i; by far both are most qualified from my stand point of view. Mainly I picked Afoa & Le'i of their law experiences which benefits Samoa Government in today's society.
All candidates have flaws in their professionals; however, they all have good hearts, love for our land & families.
Best to all of the candidates.
Your thinking is the essence of why we have so much corruption in our government. What price do you have to pay to seek what is right and what is legal?
This team is taking a road less traveled, because so many of you only want certain laws to be enforced and other laws to be over looked.
I am sure they know the risk that they're taking by taking a stance...so go on and continue to vote for those who believe that they are above the law and watch how our government will continue to misuse funds, hire unqualified family members, grant fed. money to those who haven't completed their application(ie. mistresses and her family), award contracts to.family/friends, shall I go on?
Now I ask you this, what price do you want to pay?
Since when did asking officials to enforce the law considered a "complaint?"
If this team loses the electioin, they will definitely NOT be the laughing stock because they will still walk away with their INTEGRITY in tact.
Whatever the outcome of today's decision, I believe the people of American Samoa are tired of the corruption, the misappropriation of funds, the obvious nepotism and in all honesty, the bull**it that goes on in these offices. We have had enough.
I want a leader who is for me, who will have my future in mind, my children's future in mind and for once...put American Samoa first before his/her own agenda. I believe Save & Sandra is that team - they have my vote! Stay the course S&S, fai le amiotonu!
Hey, Save Sandra team……you forgot to sue Tuika Tuika, as well…..lol.
I guess the High Court decision on the Save Sandra complaint this morning, 9.14, Friday, will decide if this team will be a force to be reckon with OR it will be buried as “non-substance” and laughing stock of the territory. This hearing will “make or break” any chances of being a legitimate contender(if that). I hope it was worth it Save Sandra team……you need to win this verdict dearly or pay the political consequences.
I think its so funny that you are asking who wears the pants in Save & Sandra's camp. If Sandra was to remain quiet, I guarantee that you would post something to the effect of "What's her role? What does she know? She's just wasting her time, she might as well step aside."
This election is by far one to remember. For the first time we have two women vying for offices of either governor or lt. governor. That is something to be proud of.
As for Save, he is a great leader. You would know that if you took the time to actually listen to him speak at different engagements and on the radio. Or perhaps be an informed voter and research his background as well as backgrounds of other candidates. If you did, you will find that Save didn't just lead sections, departments, squads or platoons. He was in charge of regions...yes, REGIONS. That says something about his leadership skills.
Do your due diligence in being informed about all the candidates before posting your opinions on any of them. But mostly because it is your duty as a voter to do so.
Is there a website that i can watch those games??.
Prime example, Rainmaker Hotel! Eight years as Governor, driving past the hotel, and doing nothing. What would make us think our Government could develop with an incompetent Leader at the helm.
From reading all these platforms, and Bio's of the teams vying for Governor and Lt. Governor, Lolo & Lemanu standout above the rest.
I wish Afoa would take a hint, for being a very good lawyer, he has no brains or heart when it comes to politics.
Faoa, enough said.
Jones who?
Salu, Yes this is another good candidate, but all she talks about is education, c'mon girl.
Save Sandra, I just wonder who wears the pants in this relationship?
I just wanted to clarify the issue about Lutali removing Lolo. I happened to been lucky enough to begin my working career, when this happened. Gov. Lutali, May he rest in Peace, did not remove Lolo as Budget Director. Lolo had stepped down due to a misunderstanding between him and a superior of his. Gov. Lutali did not want to intercede, although he had already promised Lolo that he will inform all ASG Directors that, Lolo will be reducing their Budget to payoff the millions in the ASG deficit. (including ASPA, and Maintenance fees)
Lolo then sent out a memo to all Directors of his intention to reduce ASG deficit, then went offisland, but returned to find out that his memo was disregarded by then, Lt. Governor Hunkin. Gov. Lutali then refused to step in, so Lolo resigned, because of Lutali not keeping his word.
I hope this answers your question.
If this is the kind of dirt people or the paper wants to run with, then boy has politics evolved in American Samoa. For me, I can believe that at least HTC Lolo isn't anyone's puppet. Unlike what I am hearing and reading about.
Tamaoletumua
I'm with Mose on this issue. It's the alcohol abusers not the alcohol that's the cause of the problem. Limiting alcohol or eliminating it isn't going to work as the Prohibition Era showed that, the underground/gangster's are going to step in and sell it to the public.
Just like weed, there is someone or family that's going to profit on this island weather it be legal or illegal. Limiting the amount of alcohol on the island isn't going to reduce the crime unless your limiting the sales. Who is going to watch every store on the island? I think they should raise the excise tax.
The Fono has tried taxing the alcohol but the Senate voted down because they're well aware that the taxes get passed to the consumer. What senator wants to pay for expensive beer? Surely, my uncle Senator Pagofie Fiagoa doesn't want to.