Ads by Google Ads by Google

All are invited to “The People’s Inauguration” today

“It’s the people’s inauguration… and members of the public are invited to witness the swearing in of Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga and Lt. gov. Lemanu Peleti Mauga, a memorable event at the Fagatogo Malae, today,” says Chief of Staff Fiu Johnny Saelua.

He said honored guests will be arriving at 10 a.m. and the official inauguration will kick off at 11:00 a.m. Reverend Elder Fa’atape Lavata’i of the CCCAS in Ta’u Manu’a will be conducting the prayer service, with the assistance of leaders of other church denominations, while Chief Justice Michael Kruse will administer the oaths of office for the new Governor and Lt Governor.

Today, Lolo will address the territory for the first time as governor of American Samoa. Fiu said the event will include entertainment by the Ierusalema Fou CCCAS youth, Measina Samoa Dance Group, high school Swing Choirs and LuSiTi, the three blind musicians from Samoa.

Fiu said the meal served to the guests will be the same meal that will be served to members of the public — from McDonald’s, Carl’s Jr and KFC.

He also confirmed that Head of State, his highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Taisi Efi and Masiofo Filifilia arrived yesterday with Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

In the meantime, rumors were abound yesterday that the government had declared a holiday for today’s inauguration festivities. As of press time, Samoa News was unable to confirm such a holiday was authorized by the out-going governor.

TRANSITION MATTERS

The Chief of Staff has confirmed that Gov. Lolo and Lt. Gov. Lemanu have named several of the staff for the Governor’s office, as announced earlier this week.

Iulogologo Pereira is the Governor’s Executive Special Assistant. He is a current Senior Staff member for the Senate President of the Senate, who also served under Lolo when he was Senate President.

Taimalelagi Minnie Tuia has been named the new Deputy Chief of Staff. She is the owner of Pacific Development Corporation, a former Director of Tourism, a former head of Business and Professional Women and is an officer of the American Red Cross, American Samoa.

Dr. Oreta Crichton is the governor’s chief policy advisor. She served in the same position in the Togiola/Faoa administration, but resigned last year.

Long time senior staffer for Congressman Faleomavega Eni Hunkin’s D.C. office, Solomona Auelua has been appointed special assistant to the Lt Governor, while Papali’i Marion Fitisemanu is also serving as another special assistant.

Sally Faumuina is now appointed to be the Lt Governor’s secretary. She worked as the secretary for the Director of the Department of Education.

Fiu said other positions for the Governor’s office will be filled by next week, because they are currently concentrating on the Inauguration.