Samoa News|CNN Report: An avoidable crisis?

CNN Report: An avoidable crisis? Wednesday October 28, 2009

By Drew Griffin and David Fitzpatrick, CNN Special Investigations Unit webmaster@samoanews.com

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Pago Pago, American Samoa (CNN) -- In part two, CNN's Drew Griffin reports on a crisis that by all measures could have been avoided in American Samoa.

Click to see part 2 on CNN.com

Pago Pago, American Samoa (CNN) -- When an earthquake-triggered tsunami cascaded into this tiny island in late September, the result was 34 lives lost and untold millions in property damage. But a CNN investigation that aired on "AC 360" has uncovered an array of unsettling facts that point to a single conclusion: this natural disaster was in many ways a man-made tragedy.

Click to see part 1 on CNN.com

Comments to this story (184)

April Feiloaiga wrote:	23 Jul 2010 12:34 PM
I know it's so hard to say,but the thing is it's really important to us now days.

Anonymous wrote:	22 Jul 2010 01:41 PM
Pago Pago, American Samoa (CNN).. I dont agree with the conclusion stated by the CNN news.."this natural disaster was in many ways a man-made tragedy." everything that occurrs with in this world is all purposely. Gos is the creator of the world and u and i, whether good or bad god has his reasons... So this tsunami tradgedy was not caused or made by man.

Anonymous wrote:	21 Jun 2010 12:38 PM
Ask Urself this: In what other walk of life do grown adults depends on other people to help them buy something? Women often turn to men to help them purchase a car but that's because of the obnoxious misogyny of car dealers, not because ladies worry that the car they buy won't work on their local roads. (SORRY COMPUTER/CAR ANALOGY. MAH BAD!!!!)

The one only Manu'a's finest from Colorado wrote:

19 May 2010 01:15 AM

"In God We Trust", Lets all pray for the corruption in American Samoa and everywhere else to come to an end. We are the happy people and lets not forget it. $. is the evil of all things. Lets use our natural resources and rebuild AM.Samoa from the ground up and make it look beautiful. We don't need grant from the U.S. Congress, they are the worst of all evil. I grew up in Manu'a and watched the villagers put their heart, their soul and all of their physical strength to contruct masterpieces of Samoan fales for every family in our village. Lets get back to raising livestocks, fishing and farming so we can live without depending on outside help. Lets get back to our wholesome and innocent lifestyle that is fill with love and laughter and one that is not easily influenced by outside corruption. Let us capitalize on our natural resources (Island beauty and its natural authenticity) to promote tourism so we can survive on our own without handouts from outside. I always thought Samoa were proud people, too proud to depend on someone elses sweat. Many hands make light work, so lets put our hands together and work as one to rebuild our island. If you aren't happy with your leaders, than for goodness sake fire them and elect better ones. We definitely need a siren system though, until that is done, the bell system did fine for the last century and it will do fine now. Lets stop the whining and begin by cleaning our own back yards. "Lets Beautify Our Island For God Sake".

THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK! wrote:

09 Dec 2009 09:26 AM

Before you voice your opinion and start telling people to stop talking, i'd reconsider my thoughts and check my Grammar before even saying ANYTHING!...LMAO! true life is not all about Money, but think about it, other people playing with your Sweat isn't necessarily something you would want to play around with. I understand you probably dont feel the same way we as CONCERNED citizens feel, but come on now...THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK!

GOSH!!! STOP MUMBLING YOUR TONGUE wrote:

20 Nov 2009 12:46 PM

OH WELL IF WERE THE GOVERNOR I THINK YOU WILL DO THE SAME THING. WE JUST DONT KNOW WHATS GOING ON SO WE DO HAVE THE POWER THROUGH THIS MONEY. BUT DO YOU HAVE TO DEPEND ON THEM FOR MONEY...GUESS WHAT THE ANSWER TO THAT I DONT THINK SO...WHO CARES ABOUT MONEY..JUST LIVE LIFE WITH ALL LITTLE THINGS YOU HAVE...ALL YOU GOTTA DO HAPPY AND ENJOY...I HAVE A QUESTION??? HOW ABOUT IF WERE GOING TO AFFECT AGAIN BY THE TSUNAMI DO YOU DEPEND ON MONEY TO SAVE LIFE...HELL TO N-O GURL...YOU DEPEND ON YOUR FAMILY...YOU DONT RUN AFTER MONEY..YOU RUN BECAUSE OF YOUR LIFE...LMAO..PEOPLE ARE SO FUNNY...WHEN THE TSUNAMI HIT OUR ISLAND WE WERE CALLING OUT GOD...BUT NOW WERE POINTING FINGERS ABOUT WHO TOOK THE MONEY AND WHO SPEND THE MONEY...GOSH PEOPLE PICK UP YOUR TWO LITTLE EYES AND OPEN THEM WIDE..MONEY IS NOTHING...LITTLE THINGS YOU HAVE JUST HAVE FUN AND LIVE LIFE BEFORE ITS OVER...COME ON PEOPLE OUR WORLD IS NOT ALL ABOUT MONEY...JUST DONT JUDGE THEM...JUST PRAY FOR THEM...ONLY GOD CAN JUDGE THEM...IF THEY GO THE HELL WELL THATS GOD AND IF THEY GO TO HEAVEN IT'S GOD'S DECISION...RIGHT>>>>WELL, TO MY SAMOAN PEOPLE LIVE LIFE WITH LITTLE THINGS AND IM SURE YOU'LL BE HAPPY..

Anonymous wrote:

16 Nov 2009 10:05 AM

hhmm...so much for pointing hands and blaming others especially our poor governor when we were the ones that elected him to be our leader. its funny how we can only remember when one has done something wrong and being blamed at for everything but what about the goodness that he has brought in making our territory a well and betterment one?!?!...wake up people stop blaming one another just learn to forgive and forget what happened and move forward...it could really help ease up our stressing if we really stop gossiping about others and start helping out one whoz in need....do unto others for they will do the same for you and please learn to love and forgive thy neighbor...GOD BLESS SAMOA AND AMERICAN SAMOA...payce out!!!

faiso'o lea part............. wrote:	13 Nov 2009 01:51 PM
i'm so sorrry,i tagata o lo'o faapea ona tusitusi lima solo i isi ma isi. o outou na filifilia, o le a la le mea toe faifai upu solo ma tusitusi lima solo ae le fa'aaoga lelei le mafaufau ma faitau manino i le niusipepa..E le atoa se piliona o le tupe faamolemole. A tou fia manana'o e faaleleia lo tatou atunuu, aua le tusitusi lima solo ae amata loa ona faatino.....ia manuia faiva o le aso.......

[ICT150ASCC STUDENT] PROUD SAMOAN! wrote:

11 Nov 2009 07:09 PM

To the ICT150ASCC STUDENT who wrote "STOP MUMBLING YOUR MOUTH AND THINK BEFORE YOU POST COMMENTS ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE!" you must not feel sorry for our government ryte??! you must not even work to even feel the pain that our local leaders have caused! that's right, so you probably DONT WORK and you dont care how US working individuals put in to give you a better tomorrow! why wait on God when we have the power of ideas and choices to eliminate these people and these problems?!! YOU THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK AND WRITE A COMMENT LIKE THAT! FIND A JOB AND SEE IF YOUR REALLY A SAMOAN TO EVEN BEGIN TALKING ABOUT US CONCERNED CITIZENS!! MY PEOPLES FUTURE DEPEND ON IT!

ICT150ASCCstudent wrote:	10 Nov 2009 02:21 PM
JUST PRAY AND LET IT GO...PEOPLE LIVE LIFE FOR JESUS, AND LET OUR HEAVENLY FATHER DECIDE WHAT IS GOING ON!!! ONLY GOD CAN JUDGE OUR GOVERNMENT BECAUSE WE DONT KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT OUR GOVERNMENT. STOP MUMBLING YOUR MOUTH AND THINK BEFORE YOU POST COMMENTS ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE

Rita Rox wrote:

09 Nov 2009 10:11 PM

Can’t help notice the calls for impeachment. Can anyone shed light on how to get the impeachment process going? Any suggestions on ways to determine the numbers seriously interested? What can we seriously do to remove these corrupt leaders? If there were ever a climate to do it, this is it! Waiting around for the FBI to come and take our problems away isn’t guaranteed nor does it give us the empowerment we need right now as a people. We have the power to vote our leaders in and we have the power to remove them, by impeachment. We need to use this power like they do in other places in the U.S.. We cannot just rely on faamagalo anymore. We can’t rely on that to rehabilitate repeat offenders who are delusional and in denial. We need to fix this broken governing system with the tools already designed for it. Impeachment is just one. Its our choice whether or not we want to test the impeachment process at this time. It would certainly move us ahead as a small democracy and would be a useful demonstration exercise for our children and generations to come of what to do in the face of corruption like this. It may also set us free from thinking of ourselves as “powerless,” “oppressed,” and dependent upon the feds to clean up our corruption. Heaven knows how much we need this too! Who of this generation seriously wants a government that panders to self interests, refuses to account for its spending excesses, refuses to hold itself accountable to the public to “fester” as a norm in our beloved HOMELAND? We are not powerless to stop this! Let’s be the generation remembered for daring to test the impeachment process if that what it takes. Let us be the generation that ushered in a new era of political activism and rights awareness that yielded positive change worthy of being remembered by our children and all those who will inhabit the HOMELAND after us.

Anonymous wrote:

09 Nov 2009 11:09 AM

First of all, thanks to Samoa News for keeping this link open. I have heard some people over the past two weeks say that we do not need the tsunami sirens and that WE ARE EDUCATED enough to know that when there is a strong earthquake we KNOW what to do. I would have to agree with what we have experienced last month that about 2/3 of the population of Samoa and Am Samoa have a pretty good idea of what they should do in case we are ever to experience an earthquake greater than 7.0 or higher but I wouldn't go as far to SAY that WE DO NOT NEED these sirens. Just last night as we were all asleep, we were all UNAWARE of the 7.2 earthquake that occurred in FIJI at 11:45pm Sunday night local time. This was a strong earthquake, it may not have generated a tsunami this time but what happens when it does? How are we going to be informed about any tsunami warnings after regular business hours. This is why we still need to get this warning system installed. So that whenever a tsunami warning is generated from earthquakes that occur thousands of miles away we can hear these sirens anytime of the day or night when we are sleeping or even when we are not listening to the radio. So please, UNCLE SAM, FEMA, or whomever the powers that BE, please help to get this warning system installed before we loose more lives to a NATURAL DISASTER.

O LE MASTAH LE MEA............EA???? wrote:

09 Nov 2009 10:03 AM

WELL I REALLY DONT KNOW WHAT IS ON MY MIND.....ALL I CAN SAY IS THAT THIS NATURAL DISSASTERS ONLY LEAD TO REVEALING FINANCIAL DISSASTERS THAT HOPEFULL ONE DAY WE CAN RECOVER FROM......WHAT WE HEARD AND READ ON THE NEWS IS NOTHING NEW TO US......WE HAVE BEEN DEALING WITH THIS PAIN AND PROBLEMS FOR AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER....... THE PEOPLE ARE ASHAMED OF WHAT THAT IS BEING SAID ON THE NEWS AND WRITTEN ALL OVER TH INTERNET ABOUT HOW SOME OF THE LEADERS ARE USING THE FEDERAL FUNDS FOR THEIR PERSONNEL USE....WHEN AT THE SAME TIME WE WERE THE PEOPLE WHO CHOSE THESE PEOPLE TO LEAD US....SOME WERE FORCED, AND OTHERS WERE BRIBED...NOT THAT ITS SOMETHING NEW TO US......I JUST PRAY THAT ONE DAY THAT THESE PEOPLE WILL SOMEDAY HAVE A HEART TO DO ONE THING RIGHT........THATS IF THEY STILL HAVE A HEART.......

Lerasmami28[ dissapointed student of ASCC ] wrote:

09 Nov 2009 09:21 AM

Napolean Hill once quoted that "Failure is nature's plan to prepare you for great responsibilities." When Samoa became top story on CNN on Sept.29.2009, people all over the world sent their deepest condolences to our local island. Their heartfelt sympathies were heard from overseas and all over the world. But when this tragedy hit, who was there to blame? Indeed, it was a man-made tragedy caused by the people we call leaders. Hill implied that in order for us as humans to understand life, we must go through the bad to get to the good.Meaning our leaders mess up, we get hurt and they get caught. Two words for our local its leaders, Duty & Obligation! It breaks my heart to see the image that our local leaders have created in order for others to see. Now, the untold secrets that some knew little about are now known world wide. The corruption of our government was once a concern many should have prevented. But the advantages that SOME took has just made its marks world wide. The missing funds and the unfaithful leaders, WOW! what's next in line now? They have created an image where many will see us as bad people. What one does affects the other, that other refers to me, my family, your family as well as our children. Samoans are known to people world wide as very outspoken and friendly people. God only knows what people think of us now thanks to others. Overall we shouldnt be pointing fingers, it is our own fault indeed that this issue has been revealed. We as citizens should have prevented this from happening within our government. But for some reason some refuse to take in what we underclass citizens think, after the fact that it was we that put their asses in their position!! I'm glad its being told, its what they deserve! That's probably the only solution that we CAN do in order to make these people stop from adding more shame unto our small beautiful ISLAND!

koleti nelson wrote:	08 Nov 2009 01:34 PM
My great thanks to Birdie for all his hard work in trying to do his best to implement the emergency siren in American Samoa, unfornately, many lives were devasted in such a horrific disaster because this project didn't go forward as planned.

Reveal the truth please wrote:

07 Nov 2009 06:02 PM

Resign or be impeached. How soon elected officials don't keep their failed promises. “Finally, American Samoa, rest assured that Lieutenant Governor Faoa and I will endeavor with all the knowledge and strength we have to do everything in our service to reaffirm to you that your choice is wise; And that we are worthy of your trust and support.” http://www.samoanewsonline.com/viewstory.php?storyid=2154&edition=1227348000

Purple Heart Recipient "Noble Cause" Vietnam War> wrote:

07 Nov 2009 11:13 AM

People, just hold on your horn, the (OIG) is coming to town to investigate all the problems, and we go from there. Its o'kay to vent, but it doesn't relegate anything we seen, and read about. Let the federal use their expertise, to scrutinize and to investigate humongous erronous of corruption. Lets hope some of these jerks will apprehended, and put them were they belong. As we all can see the smile on some of the U.S. Congress men, they have "Jesting" feelings toward ASG leaders, and their futile concern vs corruption and illegal practice..Why are they kicking around like hoggs tie down ready to be slaughter? They are working very hard to get more money to waste, I shall say. Therefore, the U.S. Congress are very awared of the problem vs Waste, Fraud, and Abuse perpetually in the territory. And this is an Impact to everything. (W. F. A.) Stands for; Waste, Fraud, and Abuse.

Lei wrote:

07 Nov 2009 09:08 AM

I am a military brat and it saddens me to think that my late father, or sons of Samoa, who put their lives in jeopardy in helping defend our freedom, is all for nothing. Only to find out that their tax dollars are being misused, this should be a wake up call, for them. They should reconsider claiming American Samoa as their home of residentcy. Have them put a stop to sending their tax dollars to American Samoa, anymore. I am amused, at how Chief Amataga is trying to put blame on the so called, bad element (palagi). Whom was supposedly, unable to renew his/her contract, for some unforseen reason, he/she can not continue working for our American Samoa government. Only to then turn around and inform CNN, of all the corruption going on with the local Homeland Security. Leading to the the misused funds allocated for the island wide tsunami warning system. Funds that were frozen by the Federal government, for a very good reason. Due to audit reports that were indicating, how these funds were being misused. If anyone is a bad element, it is the people running our corrupt government, that need to be weeded out and be put in prison, for their dishonesty. You reap what you sow and it is time for these people to accountable for their actions. I believe what you are implying is that you want the corruption, to be kept secret (low profile),here on island. This being just as local knowledge, but not for the world to know how crooked our government has been for many years. So, now your asking our people to turn the other way and pretend that nothing is going on. That we allow it to continue, to go on for however long they can keep corrupting our governement. Although, as if nothing is happening, which is just plain ludicrous. Someone had to put a stop to it, even if it meant that it took a bad element (palagi),to do it. He/she is obviously, not a bad element, but an honest (creditable) element, that is needed to run this government. We Samoans were apparently to chicken, to stand up to them and tell the world, how corrupt, our American Samoa goverment, has become. Using Federal funds that were allocated for a purpose, that could have possibly saved innocent lives, only to have them use it, on something totally ridiculous. I think it is time we go back to having our governor, be appointed from Federal government. We are obviously lacking credible leaders, to run our government, at the moment. What we need is someone with integrity. Who is compassionate and cares about our people, or its governments outcome. God bless America and American Samoa

Fiakele, Fiakaga, Fiamanao wrote:	07 Nov 2009 07:02 AM
The three F's is what the Samoan government is corrupt with. Get a clue people! Do not mix the FaaSamoa with Government nor Religion. Once we get that, we will be ok.

Mixing the culture with politics... wrote:

06 Nov 2009 10:51 AM

Ok people let's clear the air...so much smoke...I am sick and tired of people saying "FA'AMAGALO". Those are just PLAIN EXCUSES! The government needs to be upended, dumped out and renewed...we know that. When people try to merge the Fa'asamoa with government politics...this is what we get... a governor that has a great "Samoan Orator" voice and speaks the language with such eloquence but does not or chooses not to do right by his people. And this is the result...time and time again from the Sweat Shop in tafuna, to the DOE food service, to the Procurement...all of these people are great "Samoan Speakers" but choose not to do right by their people. So this is what happens...when election comes around..so do cash envelopes to all matai's and chiefs...THIS IS NOT THE SAMOAN CULTURE...THIS IS POLITICS INFUSING THEMSELVES IN CULTURE...Just like we expect in fa'alavelave's that the more money people bring the more love they have for whomever...where in the culture does it say that? We as a people need to reassess ourselves. Because we are definitely selling ourselves very cheaply when we have to see this broken record time and time again. It's an endless cycle 1)We see the corruption and don't do anything about it, 2)The US Gov't sees it and starts to do something about it, 3)The people are in awe of what has happened and are talking about corruption and actions that need to be taken, 4)More talk goes on 5)More talk goes on 6)Talk Dies out 7)People push it aside....and then it repeats itself like a very bad movie we are tired of seeing on TV. Politics is not a samoan thing. So don't try to use the samoan tradition in it! It ruins everything. Let's stand up! to all this because bottom line it's not just our homeland that looks bad...but everyone else that are Samoan as well.

Kat wrote:

06 Nov 2009 09:12 AM

I wish the Federal will step in and thoroughly investigate all the funds that was send to Samoa. I am sick to my stomach of what I hear all the time of what Samoa does with the funds. I pay over $10,000 into the Federal every year and, I can't stand how Samoan people spend my tax money. Now, he is buying a boat, what happened to the airplaine. what's next, Marine 1...Pay the money back..GOD BLESS our people and our corrupted government

Anonymous wrote:

05 Nov 2009 09:05 PM

THE TSUNAMI HAPPENED FOR A REASON WE JUST STARTED POINTING FIGURES TO EACH OTHER BUT NOT REALLY CALM OURSELVES DOWN AND ASK GOD WHO KNOWS THE TRUTH BEHIND EVERYTHING WE ARE HEARING. I FOR ONE REASON MY PRAYERS THAT I ALMOST PRAY EVERYDAY IS FOR GOD TO TAKE THOSE OF LEADERSHIP IN OUR GOVERNMENT THAT ARE NOT DOING THEIR DUTIES ACCORDINGLY & HONESTLY. IF THOSE IN LEADERSHIP KEPT WHAT WAS IN STILL IN THEM BY THEIR ANCESTORS TO FEAR GOD IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM AND KNOW THAT NO ONE IS LOOKING OR NO ONE MAY KNOW WHAT IS DONE IN THE DARK. BUT THERE IS OUR HEAVENLY FATHER WHO SEES & KNOWS EVERYTHING THAT WE ARE DOING BEHIND CLOSE DOORS. WHENEVER A PARENT CHILD IS MISBEHAVING OF COURSE OUR PARENTS WOULD BE QUICK TO DISCIPLINE US. THIS WHOLE THING HAPPENS FOR A REASON SO WE KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON BEHIND CLOSE DOORS OF OUR GOVERNMENT. WHY DON'T THE LEADERS OF OUR GOVERNMENT & PEOPLE OF BOTH SAMOAN ISLANDS WOULD JUST HUMBLE OURSELVES & ASK OUR HEAVENLY FATHER FOR FORGIVENESS BUT IT HAS TO BE FROM OUR TRUE HUMBLE HEART. SO, GOD CAN START A NEW THING IN OUR LIVES JUST AS PROPHET ISAIAH WAS TELLING THE ISRAELS TO HUMBLE OUR HEARTS & LET GOD START A NEW THING OR GIVE US A NEW START. PLEASE LEADERS OF AMERICAN SAMOA BOTH HOUSE (SENATORS & REPRESENATIVES) GO BEFORE GOD AND ASK FOR FORGIVENSS & HELP. PUT YOUR PRIDE & EGO DOWN BECAUSE THE BIBLE SAYS GODS BACK IS ON THOSE WHO ARE FULL OF PRIDE BUT HE IS FOREVER WITH THOSE WHO HAVE HUMBLE HEARTS.

sMiLEyy wrote:	05 Nov 2009 06:31 PM
All I gots to say is FBI PLEASE find out what is really happening within this government of my sweet sweet home[♥].

oli wrote:	05 Nov 2009 03:58 PM
I AGREE WITH CHIEF AMATAGA. HE IS INDEED A TRUE SAMOAN BY HEART. THANK YOU FOR SAYING SOMETHING NICE FOR MY BEAUTIFUL SAMOA. O LE ATUNU'U O O'U TAMA MA O'U TINA. AUA LE TU'UA I LALO LO TA TOFI MAI LE ATUA. IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT LEAVE US BE. LET US HEAL PEACEFULLY. TOFA SAMOA LO'U ATUNU'U PELE.

Pobresita wrote:

05 Nov 2009 09:05 AM

Togiola couldn't look the reporter in the eye when he said: "We are not crooked people." Note the wandering eye away from the camera, as to cower in shame and guilt. Honesty is not a priority. Accountability of funds, repsonsibility and obligation to the people you serve is ZERO importance. I'm sickened by the innocent lives lost due to greed and misappropriated tax-payer funds to SAVE LIVES. The blood of the innocent is on their hands. Let them be dealt with and served justice in the next life because history shows a destructive cycle of continuing to vote in crooks as leaders. If only there was a leader who cared more about the public than himself. Ha! The one qualified gubernatorial candidate in last year's election was smart enough to leave the island and use his appreciated talents elsewhere. I am not ashamed to be Samoan but I am ashamed of the actions of some who dare to call themselves Samoan. They do not conduct themselves in a way that is representative of the Samoan culture or values. They make a mockery of it. While the world watched with dismay and shock, they poured out donations andother forms of assistance, only to find out that there was a plan! There were funds! It is self-serving imbiciles that make the world not feel pity for American Samoa. It's a mockery. It's a shame, a damn shame!

big nut wrote:	04 Nov 2009 10:37 PM
Waawaawaa. Thats all I hear from everyone here.After the earthquake you had less than 5 minutes to run to the hills. A siren wouldn't make a difference.

SO MUCH GREED wrote:	04 Nov 2009 05:26 PM
American Samoa name have been tarnished and disgraced by Togiola and his administration. CNN just made it globally what we have known all along since Togiola and Faoa took office. Corruption-Greed-Embezzlement-you name it!!!yet they are still in office. But, the good Lord is watching--they will get what they deserve. Have hope-our pleas will be heard. GOD BLESS AMERICAN SAMOA.

Alataua Lua wrote:

04 Nov 2009 03:54 PM

IT'S NOT ALRIGHT TO MIS-USE THE FUNDS JUST BECAUSE YOU THINK A ALARM SYSTEM IS USELESS IN THE EVENT OF A NATURAL DISASTER! IT DOESN'T MATTER IF IT WAS LESS THAN WHAT THE CNN IS EXPOSING!! It's not about the amount of money (2bils) that's in question, it's the act of misusing that money when it should've been utilized for it's intent purpose. Who cares if it wasn't really 2bils? It was still misused! The intent purpose for those funds was to construct an alarm system to possibly save a life or two in a situation of a major disaster. In fact, it didn't even matter if was a "tsunami" that killed those 34 victims. It could've of been another form of natural disaster... we still don't have an alarm system to alarm the community of what is yet to come so the people would have that last chance in life to make refuge. The tsunami was surely an act of God or whatever you wanna call it but, it doesn't change the fact that the funds intended for an alarm system was mishandled. There's nothing wrong with the unity of people in Samoa right now. In fact, Samoa is more in unity now than ever since Sept. 29. And of course we continue to worship his name and trust his will. But he works in mysterious ways. He purposely causes events (good & bad) and as a result; reveals other hidden events that should, and would be confronted and judged. So Samoa as a whole doesn't need a governor, a lt. governor or anybody else to constantly remind them of God's Trust and unity and love & forgiveness and things of that sort for it is a common knowledge in Samoa anywayz. But we still need to face the facts and accept all responsibilities for our actions. If your responsible for stealing, and being a crook that you are, then you need to accept all consequences. And don't forget about the differnces of opinions from different individuals. It's called "freedom of speech" we're all entitled to that freedom. SOIFUA!!!

Responder wrote:	04 Nov 2009 01:46 PM
Hey UTU SUPPORTER: It's "The LOVE of Money is the root of all evil." Money is not the problem. People who love money more than God are evil. That's the problem, and that's the real saying. Hey Chief Amataga: Nobody hat to "rat" to CNN, all they had to do was read Samoa News or listen to Radio New Zealand. Both have been telling the world about corruption in American Samoa for years!

samoamatalasi wrote:

04 Nov 2009 12:54 PM

OK fine then Chief Amataga, it is I. Guilty as charged. But so what, what does it prove if I had CNN involved, who cares. The fact that the matter is, something needs to be done and someone must go down for it. If not then, the 30+ victims will never rest in peace and the grief will always linger. It could have been avoided, I tell you this much, it was my uncles land that was designated for one of the towers for the "giant voice system." We would always kid and joke around when it was a chosen spot, saying things like- "tsunami, Samoa...nahhhh." But when months and then years passed, we were always wondering when construction would begin. Its just so sad that it came to this, the lives lost, homes lost, families davastated, an islan still in shock. It brings tears to my eyes every single time I think about it. I feel the grief and sorrow, the little ones who are gone, the families that have one less person in their household. It hurt me so much when I heard the story of the little girl who was found with a back pack still strapped to her back. It sucks so much that I am hurt, even to this day. It is such a nightmare, and that is why we need to get over our pride and vote and choose accordingly. Keep them out of our government. My love to you, American Samoa! muamualeatua@gmail.com

Love.Live.Life wrote:

04 Nov 2009 11:46 AM

CNN is not the the Supreme Court. What they say is not authoritive. They do not have the right or the authority to declare any citizen guilty. I'm only concerned about results and whether such matters are true which can only be decided by the courts under the rule of law. My message to all of those who are disappointed although they have the right to be disappointed is, do not rush to conclusions. Always remember,NOT GUILTY UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY.

Larry Fuss wrote:

04 Nov 2009 10:56 AM

CNN never said that $2-billion was spent for the warning system. You weren't paying attention. And Chief Amataga, who has many of his facts wrong, apparently wants to blame "outsiders" for all the corruption and problems in the ASG. Outsiders = palagi. In other words, send your palagi money to American Samoa, but don't bother us about it when we spend it on leather chairs and big-screen TVs instead of warning sirens. While it's true that sirens wouldn't have prevented the property damage, the warning might have enabled more people to get to higher ground. In case you missed it - 34 PEOPLE DIED!

Chelsea wrote:

03 Nov 2009 08:04 PM

Drew Griffin's reporting was very one sided. I only wish he covered all angles and gotten his figures correct before jumping the gun and sensationalize everything. Granted there may have been misuse of funds, but report the truth as it is, but not to make a name and a buck for yourself. I'm a great fan of CNN, and have over time observed Griffin's approach to news coverage...there's a difference between a journalist and a reporter, and he's no journalist.

Anonymous wrote:

03 Nov 2009 05:45 PM

I agree, the electing the governor for AS should go back to where it belongs--Dept of Interior. The only governor that did work for the Samoan people was Coleman. After him, they have ALL BEEN NOTHING BY CROOKS. For these people from the governor on down its not about the people of Samoa and what they can or will do for the island, its about them and their aiga's. Its all about how well they will live in their new homes, the cars their family will drive and please don't forget the trips. After all these trips are paid for by the PEOPLE OF SAMOA so why not take the wife and maybe daughter or son. Take for example, The governor's wife, her brother is married to my cousin. I understand she recently moved into a government house. My question was why? Her husband doesn't work for the government and he wasn't sent there to work on the island. Before moving back to the island, she would visit AS and live at the governor's residents like it was her husband's family house. Our culture was never corrupt. Before the the palagi's came our culture was our law and it was our way of life. Now the matai's and even the faifeau's along with all the politicians our using our culture for gain in riches. The FBI should investigate put them all in Federal Prison. Samoa's governor all those who has had a hand in misusing Federal Funds should be prosecuted. Do they think this is FREE MONEY for them to spend. Do they really think the government of the United States is STUPID. Their way of think in AS is they the Federal Govt will never do anything about it. When tax time comes around for these AS people, those that will be receiving refunds will never receive it. Because the government's reply to these poor people "government has no money." This goes on every year. This is why the appointing of the governor should go back to Dept of Interior.

APOLIMA wrote:

03 Nov 2009 04:59 PM

I've read a lot of comments about this matter and what I've noticed was a lot of misunderstanding. A lot raised hell because they think 2 billion was sent for this warning system. That number was thrown in this video by this palagi to make you mad. I don't know if you did any research about that number before you raised hell or at least get some facts straight. The second misunderstaing was, the video showed only the devastation on property not lost of lives while talking about the absence of a warning system. That's what Faoa was referring to as misleading and that's what I saw too. It doesn't mean that he doesn't care about human lives. Faoa lost a very close relative in this past disaster. People please stop bad mouthing the govenor and the administration before you get all your facts straight. I recommend that you all read CHIEF AMATAGA'S comments. He agrees with you on some points but the finger pointing has got to stop. Manuia Amerika Samoa, Independent State of Samoa and I love you all my dear Samoans, even if you hate me. I mean it from the bottom of heart. SOIFUA.

NO WARNING wrote:

03 Nov 2009 04:26 PM

2 billion dollars for a year's by year's? So what's the big deal. If the United States Goverment send American Samoa money. Well they all agree to send it to help all the people of American Samoa are lost their's love's one and nothing to live in. We were not supposed to blame anyone because of the Earthquate and Tsunami. About the Tsunami warning, yes I believe that is true. Because I'm one that were their before the earthquate was started to occur in the morning but anouncer's of the radio station mention that he receive alot of phone call the our people. And say, Please, right now I did not receive any warning message form our who ever take place right now. Well, right no we should prayer to those who lose their lives, and have not place to stay.

ASCC student wrote:

03 Nov 2009 03:02 PM

People have different views and opinions on this issue. We all shared and point out our inner believes and the kind of mentality we have. Well, of course we have the freedom of speech and many others, but we should also be aware of how we were raised and brought up in our Samoan culture and tradition. The western or (palagi) life is all politics, fame, etc...(meaning they do not know who you are, or I should say "NO RESPECT"). We were taught and raised from are parents and fore-fathers to have "RESPECT", FAAALOALO, "LOVE" ALOFA (because Samoan people are one family, and 'KNOW YOUR LEADERS" AVA IE MATUTUA MA FAAALOALO IAI. The money issue that we are raising our blood pressure at is a white man's story. Even if they interview our leaders and did get or not get what they were after, just let them do their work. And as for us the Pure Heart Samoan we need to pray and continue our kind and loving relation with each other. A Pure Samoan stands for another Samoan. If our leaders misconduct our government we pray for forgivenes and faithful guidance, and let God deals, because no one is perfect. One saying by Jesus in the Bible, whom ever have no sin cast the first stone. We are all sinners, therefore, no stone casting. The law is the law and let law deals, but we should not bring western life style to govern our Happy, loving and kind Samoan tradition and way of life. FAAMAGALO MA FAAGALO, GOD BLESS SAMOA...

Concerned ASCC student wrote:	03 Nov 2009 02:20 PM
When the tsunami hit Samoa on September 29th, people lost their lives from this tragic event where most of the survivors complained about signals that the government must send or sirens that are supposed to send out warnings for a tsunami in order to escape on time. Our Government should seriously think about what the people are concerned about for future preparations.

CONCERNED STUDENT OF ASCC wrote:

03 Nov 2009 02:14 PM

I can't believe wat people are saying to our govt. and to each other...ua pei a oukou e legi samoa. Look people, God is the only person who can fulfill our needs, if u don't believe in God, then I'm sorry for your life...please people, don't blame each other, because we all have mistakes, but to tell you the truth, it is everybodys fault why the earthquake and the tsunami came to American Samoa...I mean, we don't take care of our land that God gave us to live in it, it is true that we have sinned, but that doesn't mean that God punish us for being sin all the time...we are the reason why this happened, cause we don't take care of our island of American Samoa. So, please again, don't blame each other!...GOD BLESS SAMOA!!!!!

UTU SUPPORTER!!!!! wrote:	03 Nov 2009 01:29 PM
MONEY IS THE ROOT OF ALL EVIL... WHEN MONEY IS INVOLVED EVERYONE WANTS A PIECE OF IT.. IF GOVENOR TOGIOLA WAS A GOOD LEADER HE WOULD HAVE PUT HIS DOWN AND HIS CABINET MEMBERS ARE JUST GIVING A BAD NAME. HONEST PEOPLE ARE NEED RIGHT AWAY, EVEN THOUGH IT WOULD TAKE TIME BUT AT LEAST OUR PEOPLE WILL HAVE SOME KIND OF PEACE OF MIND..

shameful wrote:	03 Nov 2009 12:59 PM
it's time for the am. samoa government to be run again by the PALAGI's appointed by the interior! FED's should start arresting and put whoever that was involved with misused of funds into jail. appoint a new governor and start FRESH, just as long as it is not another samoan!

Anonymous wrote:

03 Nov 2009 12:03 PM

Yes, I have read many many comments with so much finger pointing, religious sermons, etc. but you know what? We all need to vent; get things off our chests. It's human nature to finger point. It makes us feel better and to be able to move on in a constructive manner. This is what this space is about; discussions, opinions, religious matters and so forth. Disagreements are helpful and civil bantering around with each other on various topics makes it very interesting. It's freedom of speech and if we behave ourselves with our words, Samoa News will let us be heard (or should I say read) in this wonderful space. :D

True Believer wrote:

03 Nov 2009 11:07 AM

Well this has blinded alot of you and u dont see the main point here......when i look at samoa then and now after the tsunami, our ppl stood up and they started wat anyone would do after a tragedy, get up and make tomorrow a perfect day and make ppl around you show a smile, that is wat we should do. u ppl think only samoan government is corrupted, no. the united state has a lot of those and they never bring them out. Samoa help each other out rather then distroying wat we have been workin so long to do:HAPPNINESS, GOD, FAMILY, NEIGHBORS, KINDNESS, AND LOVE FOR EACH OTHER. we have been doing it for like "EVER" with money or fame. Samoa servived because they call us the HAPPY PEOPLE and yall dont see that anywhere.No matter wat happens....stay happy and give a helping hand to Your fellow neighbors..keep the samoan spirit alive, dont let it fade.

Anonymous wrote:	03 Nov 2009 11:00 AM
What plan he doesn't have a plan period.... He's clueless like all of them...He is one of the kiss a@$$ to the governor n the lt governor...Do the right thing, all of you needs to step down n let someone like Utu whos more qualify to do the job.....

Anonymous wrote:	03 Nov 2009 10:19 AM
PLEASE, JUST STEP DONW BOTH YOU AND LT. GOVERNOR. WAITING TO GO TO JAIL FOR MISUSING THE FUNDS. AND MIKE SALA YOU THE KOVANA MAN LET GO OF ALAILIMA AND NOW THEY ARE BLAMING YOU. YOU AND FOLLOWED ALAILIMA'S PLAN CAUSE WE KNOW YOU DON'T HAVE A PLAN. IT IS ABOUT TIME THE FEDERAL STEP FBI PLEASE DO WHATEVER THE UNITED STATES CAN DO TO HELP THE AMERICAN SAMOA AND MANUA PEOPLE. GOD BLESS MANU'A SA

Anonymous wrote:

03 Nov 2009 09:59 AM

The Samoan people are greatly humiliated with embarrassement and shame. Look at this another way; the CNN disclosure of the tsunami siren corruption could not have come at a better time. Unfortunately it took a terrible disaster with loved ones lost and unbelieveable distruction to many villages for the corruption to come to light to the whole world. So many red flags popping up continuously you would think the USA government would have scrutinized more carefully where and how taxpayer's money were being utililzed. The USA should have taken action to make aware to the crooks that they are the big red blip on the radar screen and no longer be tolerated. We can only hope that the CNN disclosure will open the doors very wide to make known all the other corruptions committed by the government. The Samoans have complained bitterly for years as well as the reporting by Samoa News, so how can anyone NOT believe the blatant bad behavior and disregard for the people. They say there is usually something good that comes out of something bad. I hope so because the deaths of men, women, children, babies and the elderly are a terribly high price to pay for the "something bad".

Chief Amataga wrote:

03 Nov 2009 09:54 AM

I must say that my initial reaction to the CNN report was much like the rest of the commentators above. I was angry, sad, ashamed, disgusted, etc., and feel so sad for our people back home. I, too, am a proud Samoan and a veteran of the United States of American (USAF). I worked in Capitol Hill for many years for two Congressmen after I left the Air Force. Having work in Capitol Hill, one would come to know the ins and outs of our Federal Government. And as such, our Samoan leaders, along with other US territories come very year to Washington, D.C. seeking revenues for different programs and projects for their respective island and people. This includes the many grant monies solicited and received by the Samoan people through and by Congressman Eni Faleomavaega office. I believe it’s important for all of us Samoans living in the US mainland and throughout the world to not be too haste in your pointing fingers. No person is pure, clean and without faults. It’s important that before you go pointing your finger, you need to have your facts together. Like the saying goes “people who live in glass houses, should not throw stones”. Please allow me to share some important factual information. NOAA, Homeland Security and other Federal Agencies allocated funds for the tsunami warning system, yes, this did in fact happened. And, by the way, the allocated amount was $250,000, and not $2-Billion. However, these funds were in fact frozen by Homeland Security for 4-years, due to some mishap causing the tsunami warning systems to be incomplete, and as we know it today. Yes, the governor’s office has the power to get it done. I agree with all of you on this. The question I would like to ask is in order to clear the air: “Will the reason person who contacted CNN from Samoa please stand up”. Show the Samoan people who you really are?” You live among the Samoan people and make your living off of the Samoan people, and yet, you are secretive and deceitful to the people you live among. A lot of people know who you are, and you know what your real motive was for bringing CNN to American Samoa. You are an outsider, and you know there are a lot of federal monies (funds) being funnel to American Samoa through the federal government. You have been found out. The real reason for your bringing CNN to Samoa is because you were angry your contract proposal was not approved by the government of American Samoa. So, you thought that you ought to go and get even with the Samoan government by brining CNN to expose some of things that you did not like about the Samoan government and its people? You are the BAD element that is in Samoa today, and nothing good is going to come of it. You need to leave the islands. So, my fellow brothers and sisters of Samoa, there is a lot behind this CNN report that has not yet come out to the open, like who the real snake is that contacted CNN and what his real motive was. This does not excuse the corruption and the mismanagement of funds being funneled through our islands. Also, we all know that we (American Samoa, Western Samoa, Tonga and the rest of the South Pacific islands) are situated and located in an area of the world that is surrounded by earthquake faults, etc., and is known as the “Ring of Fire” in the Pacific Rim. This is a fact, and the earthquake caused the tsunami waves. The tsunami was not caused by the governor or his administration, or any of my relatives (both dead and alive), and are now homeless. This is nature’s doing. God did not cause the tsunami because He is angry at Samoa and its people. It nature, people! It was going to happen no matter what. It was just a matter of time. Samoa is located in an area of the world that disasters like this occur frequently from time to time. Think about this, the earthquake occurred, caused the tsunami wave, and it had only between 7-10 minutes to travel 120-miles to American and Western Samoa at 530-miles an hour; Pacific islanders did not have that much time to run up the hills or seek shelter. Could tsunami warning system have prevented property damages, and lost of life? No way, even if you have a tsunami warning system up and running and in great working condition, there is no warning in the world that would have prevented the devastation that happened, the lost of lives and the serious property damages through our islands. Please brothers and sisters of Samoa, this is not the time to point fingers, instead let’s work together. Get rid of the bad elements in Samoa. They are outsiders, who want to take over our island. Their only interest is their own and they do look down to the natives (us Samoan people). They are sitting back reading all your comments and laughing like the snake that he is, yet, he is loving the fact we are pointing our fingers to one another. We Samoans, we are all related. Maybe not second or third cousins, but, we are all blood related to each other. So, let’s come together in peace and harmony…. Ia manuia American Samoa, Western Samoa and Tonga ilenei fa’afuase’i ua o’o mai ia te’i tatou uma lava. Fa'amolemole ise upu ua sese ona alu atu. It is, what it is! Soifua ma ia manuia tagata Samoa uma, o Chief Amataga

Not Fair wrote:

03 Nov 2009 09:45 AM

people that knows you're Samoan or your friends call and said, "I thought your people are very honest people but CNN said otherwise", it's very embarrassing. Our govt leaders should just quit right now, end the embarrassment just handed the govt over to Federal Govt. What our forefathers fought for to have the Govt of Am. Samoa run by Samoans meant nothing to these guys. They are some money hungry SOBs and that's it. Culture plus politics equal corruption..nuff said....

jackie fidow wrote:

03 Nov 2009 08:27 AM

leatua mo samoa mo leatua.i was born and raised in american samoa.i was watching the tsunami on cnn destroying leone village and pagopago village.and took those family lives.most of the homes and buisness building and roads where destroyed and in the back round i did'nt hear no emergency sirence to warned people that the tsunami is coming.the situation about the governement and the falefono.that i read most people about there comment and there opinion.this proplem that we have now today fa'amolemole ia its the same story since i lived in american in 1970 to 1989.that all the funds that we get from the us government to samoan government since i was lived there doing that time.millions of am dollars that american samoa government had.i didnt see no change doing those years.until now the school buildings where buildt like fale samoa and the materials there were built the school with it so cheap all the did just bored some concrete and wood and that was it.and the roads for so many years i was travel back and forth on the road its the same roads there no change.most part of the road its unfinished some part its cracked and paved in.come on now this its government jobs spend the money to built real school bildings and roads and family homes in american samoa and health dept and education and good hospital and bring in new tehcnology and more amreican buiseness and more jobs for the people of american samoa.there are real important worke to do than point finger whos wrong and right about the government of american samoa and its not just american samoa its also western samoa too.that was hit by the tsunami and 100 family members where died fa'amolemole my people we need to pull togather and come togather and worke togather and do the right thing for all samoan people and islands this not time to hate and against oure owned its gods time that we must wake up and used all the gifts that god bless oure samoan people and oure nation with to stand togather as one and worke togather and to rebuilt and built samoa with gods love and harmony and bring joyful to all samoan around the world and moved foward to the better future and a safe loving beautiful respectful people and country in the world god bless samoa and and the people of samoa and new change for samoa ia manuia tofa soifua..

Anonymous wrote:	03 Nov 2009 08:26 AM
its quite sad to hear this on the news...i thought we were taught betta then dis....wateva happened to our values....all those funds provided by uncle sam, and we still aint using it rite...lets start from a clean slate....peace...God bless SAMOA....

Boat.L wrote:	03 Nov 2009 08:01 AM
with all do respect, but I have noticed that all everyone is capable of doing is blame each other.true that cnn embarased us,but we dont have to fight each other. Imean hello can we act like real samoans and do somthing about it,other than just killing each other with insults.childish.

Annoyed and Irritated!!! wrote:

03 Nov 2009 07:31 AM

Many of you are pointing fingers on who to blame...how could it have been prevented if something was done earlier...now you point fingers and blame the leaders...yes it is their doings but we had it coming because we live in a political world were everyone is a politician...it is a corrupted nation..you blame the voters and the leaders...but really we are all to blame for knowing things are fishy and not doing something about it!!!!

FL wrote:

03 Nov 2009 06:47 AM

let the investigation go on. CNN shined some light on this situation and came up w/their conclusion and facts. NOT everything on CNN, any news media, tabloids, and newspaper is going to always be true. if there was wrong doing let the court rule. i wish drew & david could of reported on the good not only their conclusion of the bad. too bad when they visited the island all they could mustard up was the bad. i'm sure they enjoyed their paid for accommodations and the wonderful hospitality of the Samoan people. CNN quick to put on blast the negative about American Samoa and NOT so quick to inform the public (wks later) the SLOW relief aid efforts for the viction of the "Katrina Hurricane." i don't like to hear all the negative press about American Samoa but if any of it is true let law prevail. our people are good people, period. theres' always going to be a few bad apples, just as long as the good apples out number the bad, LOL!

someone how Know whats going on wrote:

03 Nov 2009 03:43 AM

Se talofa e ia Togiola, I think that you pick the wrong time to become a Governor. I kind a look at it as a problem that we all have, is not just the goverment is everyone in the Island. Ask yourself, what would you done better then what this man is doing right now, would you have done something defferent I would think not, with all this corruption from other that where onces sit on this seat, there is nothing he can do. I'm not tring to defend Togiola but hey just think about this before you point your finger. About the CNN News well, Is ashame, but its the true, there a lot of money that came in to our little Island but a whole lot of missused by those where before Togiola, and now he is carry all the problem. All I can say, is that this will never end I'm telling you, people of American Samoa how every we elect or select to put in that position as a Governor he will do the same thing, cause that our natural way, and plus we are so far in depth that we can't do any thing about. But for you the Governor like I was saying you pick the wrong time to became a Governor. Ia manuia le aso "aua le tau le pua ma Lafo"

Time to clean house people: wrote:	03 Nov 2009 03:29 AM
Well people the cat is finally out of the bag, Huh? Everyone who watched that CNN news special on American Samoa with the interviewing of our so-called Governor should notice how nervous he is and can't even find the words to say when asked a question. He probably feels like crawling under a rock. What a down right disgrace to our people.

WE ALL FAMALY wrote:

02 Nov 2009 06:24 PM

God is Good! Always at all the time. Mike Sala, What are you going to do now? This is your time show people of American Samoa, you are the man with the plan. I have confident in you to make things happen. Don't waste another minute. Get a good Planning Management. You will need good strong aggressive staff members to speed up the Disaster Planning Management. Invite all other agencies and villgers leaders, schools, vendors, business, organization, to put in their part of the plan. American Samoa come together now and help Mike Sala and the Governor to get this planning before is too late. May the good Lord shower you all with good thoughts and knowledge for your application. I will always remeber my peole in prayers. I feel for our people and the hard work you all dealing with. Please don't point fingers at citizen's criticisms, they have all the rights to say how they feel. Take their copalints as a lerning tools for you all leaders of American Samoa. God Bless you all.

Anonymous wrote:	02 Nov 2009 04:23 PM
Its the voters fault. Their integrity and values were bought by a chicken thigh,weiner and a mafu fasi ulu for their vote. Only in Samoa is this possible.

Anonymous wrote:

02 Nov 2009 04:20 PM

I AM SO TIRED OF LISTENING TO THIS MISMANAGEMENT OF FUNDS, THIS IS WORLDWIDE; HOW DOES ALAIILIMA FEELS ABOUT HIMSELF NOW?? PROUD AND MIGHTY IN ANOTHER WORLD APART FROM AMERICAN SAMOA?? WHAT IMPACT HAS THAT LEFT FOR THE PEOPLE OF AMERICAN SAMOA --- NOTHING BUT THE NEGATIVES....HEY, FBI DO YOUR THING BUT THE QUESTION OF THE DAY IS, "WILL THERE BE MORE-TO-COME MAN MADE TRAGEDIES E.G. DENYING TO EVER INSTALL THE SO-CALLED SIREN'S FOR THE TSUNAMI WARNING SYSTEM ALAIILIMA NEVER GOT TO INSTALL???" "IA MANUIA LAVA OE ALAIILIMA MA LE AIGA ATOA"

HIGHLY CONCERNED AND WAY AGGRAVATED wrote:	02 Nov 2009 03:22 PM
this is BS!! 2 billion since 1995 wow that's 14yrs ago..y is Am. samoa still hurting on funds, why were there roads still looking like 1940's before the tsunami?, why are there no jobs? why is the cable not extended to every village? why does the government not give what the people want? AND YES IT IS A DEMOCRACY DAMMIT!!! CAN YOU ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS!!!

Malotumaumafatulegae'emautumoeaau wrote:	02 Nov 2009 02:52 PM
Afioga Le Autasi- Aua e te lagalaga ma'a, o ai na fanaua le LE'IATO? O le TOGIOLA fa'amolemole!

Anonymous wrote:	02 Nov 2009 01:14 PM
This would never have happened in the first place, only if our leaders would have done their jobs. Govenor Togiola it only makes u look bad cause u are putting the WRONG people.. I just pray that in the four years someone better would lead our people.

SATANI wrote:

02 Nov 2009 12:23 PM

A U.S tax payer lived and worked off island,(30+ yrs). Stop the finger pointing game and fix the problem,(Typical ASG officials). Corruptions in ASG existed for a very long time, (WHAT A SHAME). So, don't acted surprise when CNN reported corruption within ASG. CNN just brought it out in the open for the whole world to know. I for one not even embarrassed by the CNN report. It just shed more light of what's really going on within the government of Amerika Samoa, CORRUPTION. Thanks CNN!!

Anonymous wrote:

02 Nov 2009 12:03 PM

True Believer...did you lose a loved one or several members of your family as the tsunami came rushing in with its deadly force and might? Maybe you do not live on the island and did not lose any family members. The only thing that I can make sense of your comment is that you support the corruption, no matter what, which has been pervasive under Togiola's governorship. It is evident that the PROBLEM IS THE GOVERNMENT and it is too bad that so far there has not been a SOLUTION to this maniacal conduct in serving the very important and basic needs of the people of American Samoa. There has been too much suffering in the past and present as well as constantly having to live on the edge. Paradise this is not but it could be.

G.A. wrote:

02 Nov 2009 10:16 AM

It is a coincident that the very project that Birdie and his 16 members of his team were workings on is the purpose of that project to utilized...it was a 'WARNING SYSTEM" FOR NATURAL DISASTER'. Birdie tried... the new Homeland Security had amble time to put up the system. Ooooh yeah there was no money...excuse...but they have free money for hawaii's heritage week and OMG it was 200K, no more huh...oh the mediocre project that doesn't have anything to do with people's safety...they have money for those other less priorty projects... Safety and the well being of the people of American Samoa when natural disaster hits is not priority. And you blame Birdie...Birdie is out of the picture for two yrs now, the earthquake and tsunami occurred during Mike Sala's watch Gov. Togiola and Lt. Gov. Sunia...doing the interview by CNN one of these 3's said he had no knowledge,and the other one got on the newspaper and refuted that they have...wow...so we are all now confused...but it reveals that something fishy in going on...and it is now clear in everyone's knowledge there is a COVER UP of COOOORRRRRRUUUUUPPPPPTTTTTIIIIOOOON AND EMBEZZLEMENT. So, Fale, Lexinton and David Kulberg if you don't have guts to defend American Samoa people then keep your comments until everything is all cleared up. Seek God's heart and He will reveal to you what to do. God bless the innocent and suffering people of American Samoa as well as Samoa...e feololo fo'i le faafitauli i Samoa i Sisifo...So sad with our people's leaders.

True Believer wrote:

02 Nov 2009 10:14 AM

Everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. I just wanted to say one thing is that “BECAREFUL OF WHAT YOU SAY AND WHAT YOU ASK FOR.” I know we don’t have a perfect government and no body does no matter where you live. People make mistakes in life and what do we do “we find the problem, find solutions, fix it, and move on.” We are only seeing one side of the story in the cnn news, c’mon people we always jump to quick to say this and that. I just wanted to say that no matter how corrupted our government is I will always stand behind my governor Mr. Togiola 110% and support whatever plans and decisions his makes.

It's about time? wrote:	02 Nov 2009 09:34 AM
This is just one of MANY more!!!!.......This is just a scratch on the surface guys/gals....It's always been that Samoa Government always uses the monies meant to appropriated for a specific project to fund another project or for their personal gains (ie....new leather office chair....new computer for the boss man....etc....)A can of worms to be exposed!!!!!

Anonymous wrote:

02 Nov 2009 09:24 AM

OMG..What an embarrasement! I was born and raised in AM SAMOA and i think it is a shame to be have the tsunami subject brought up at work cause all US Taxpayers suddenly turned the other cheek after watching that embarrasing news. Not only AM SAMOA doesnt look like a territory of the US but a third world country. I think we shouold take a look at Western Samoa and the well educated people that run their government and learn from them. They are far more developed than us. 7million dollars sent for alarm system that hasnt been built yet?...and money was spent on plasma TV, SUVs and so forth? Wow!!

Mrs. 9210 wrote:

02 Nov 2009 08:11 AM

Why are we mouthing about our own gov't. People in AS and abroad should be thankful that peopel in AS are on the rock deligently "tautua" our people. No matter what anyone thinks or say there will always be CORRUPTION. It's not the person himself, it's the people around the person. May God bless American Samoa and the United States! Hope God will get AS out of this mess, let things be well explained and clarified.

Siligi A. Nakiso-Vaapuu wrote:

02 Nov 2009 07:56 AM

oka oka oka, the american samoa government and its many corruptions, just killed 34 people.... what do you have to say about that now? speechless i bet... such a small island with many crooked leaders, you are all so money hungry, read the bible every now and then, it states that "money is the root to all evil." it is also a great servant but a terrible master, meaning in samoan terms, "aua le pulea le tupe le tagata" that is the biggest problem the american samoa government has and its leaders are not making it easier.... kalofae ia samoa, ia fa'amafanafana atu le agaga paia a le Atua i aiga na toesea o latou tama, tina, fanau, uso, ma tuagane i lenei fa'alavelave mata'utia..... don't ever forget, "God is good all the time, God is great everyday."

Anonymous wrote:	02 Nov 2009 05:43 AM
How Embarrasing. All that money & nothing to show for!

anonex wrote:	01 Nov 2009 05:26 PM
SN, what some of us saw "LIVE" on CNN is about 3-5 times longer than the snippets available on the website. Any way we can view the segments (Wed and Thu) in its entirety? [Editor's note: The links we have are to what CNN has put on line so far. I don't know if they put the whole thing up after some passes or not. We will check on it.]

Anonymous wrote:

01 Nov 2009 02:46 PM

Talofa Lava. I was not surprised when I heard about this news on tv, newspaper and from other people. Also, I was not surprised that many people (Samoa) will have a lot to say about this news. For one thing that I was truly not surprised with is the feeling of embarrassment and disgust. I have to say that not all government is as perfectly stable as the next government. Meaning that our (ASG) government is not the only bad apple out there. For me saying this doesn't affect the fact that some of the decisions that lead to what had happened as discovered by reporters (CNN) doesn't really or at all have the whole people of Samoa's decision but of those people having higher authority and positions in the government. I didn't imposed them to point fingers and blame whoever but this is true. The only reason why I needed to commented in here is to account some of those who suggested someone from the U.S. to take over or be the leader for our people. Come on think before you even say something. Are you saying that our people are not capable enough to lead our own people? People made mistakes and the only thing to learn from our mistakes is to understand, punishment and doing the right thing. Learning from our mistakes doesn't mean running away from our mistakes and shutting down our own people from taking government authority. Yes we need a lot of help from the U.S. but bringing someone to take over us is not the first step to solve our issues. Please I hope that you all reconsidered what you had said and come up with better solutions not just running away from our problems. Issue such as this we have to be open mind and think outside the box. I know how this feels because I was born and raised in Am. Samoa. The only reason I left the island is for school and other purposes but my whole heart and mind cares about our people and government.

Siaosi Talalemotu Ili wrote:

01 Nov 2009 11:43 AM

Amereican Samoan citizen, It's time for change, an uncooperted and unorganized form of goverment must be scrap. Quam a territory of the US went through the same thing and they changed their form of goverment through an organic act and now American Samoa are dealing with goverment corruptions. American Samoan citizen should vote to change a form of goverment from uncooperated unorganized territory to cooperated and organized territory of the US. like Quam and Porto Rico, that will give the US more rights to protect corruptions in the goverment. American Samoan goverment do not want a federal office in American Samoa that's what the US wants in order to oversight federal problems in the goverment of American Samoa. That Matai system control the House and the senator got to go, bring the young educated generations to the house and senators instead only you have a Matai name in order to quualify and no educations requirements. The governor preached the public that when you become US citizen you will lose your Samoan culture and the goverment will control all lands, that's nonsense. Quam Porto Rico and the newest territory of the US Northern Mariana are enjoying all the rights of became a US citizen born in their homeland.

Anonymous wrote:

01 Nov 2009 07:55 AM

To be honest with everybody I think all these people needs to be thrown in jail. But its not just the government's fault, its the peoples fault, people of American Samoa, for electing these people to lead American Samoa. When election comes around, its all about family, vote for him cause we are related or whatever the reason. Its everbody's fault after years that they knew that these same leaders are stealing, corrupt and whatever it is they are doing. And i won't be surprise come next election these same crooks get elected again.. I think the Sunia Family should not get involve with the government at all.

Siaosi Talalemotu Ili wrote:

31 Oct 2009 05:29 PM

Misused of federal fund is a crime. So FBI should ensure that all acountable personnel involved in the misused of special federal fund for tsunami warning system in American Samoa must be punishable to the full extend of the law. and the goverment of American Samoa should paid back all misused fund plus interest. Listened to Goernor Togiola anserws to CNN interview it's so embarrased he had alot of don't know answer or act dumb that's why federal official called his ansewrs nosense. It seems to me that the governor thinks is no big deal he don't even want to pay back the tsunami warning fund. I'm more angry about the goverment of American Samoa my own people cheated me out of my tax money. I've been converted from US National to Naturalize US citizen due to American Samoa goverment corruptions and federal fund you misused is US citizen tax payer's money. FBI some of the Governor's resposibility is to ensure that all federal funds crants to American Samoa are use accordingly, he is fully responsible for the misuse of the tsunami warning system federal fund.

SAMOAmoSAMOA wrote:	31 Oct 2009 03:47 PM
Lota lima lava e paia ai si ota mata. Afai sa iai ni aleu toe afua se taeao. ae aua le tusitusi lima. Manuia America Samoa.

FILOMENA True loyal Samoan wrote:

31 Oct 2009 08:39 AM

Wow I think this is a crooked government I grew up with; bunch of liars and specialy the governement they got all they have and still steal from their own people. If it weren't for the Tsunami we would have never known there was money donate to the goverment to istall alarm systems; Look at it now there nothing being done and lots of hurt and pain and dying or nothing now; however the governor and his cronies are high and mighty in their confort homes paid by the people of Samoa. Now we know where the real crooks live and they are not the foreignors like Togiola tells everyone.

Anonymous wrote:

31 Oct 2009 08:26 AM

Wow! My mind is just in a whirl with all the comments and different opinions. The corruption in the US is stratospheric also so don't feel ashamed or embarrassed as I know Samoans are a very proud people. But it is the governor/government and the Feds fault for what is going on in AS. You, the people are the ones who suffer and struggle for a decent living while the crooked politicians and other government employees are robbing the coffers for their own personal gain. It is their shame and embarrassment; not yours.

Anonymous wrote:	31 Oct 2009 06:33 AM
ha ha ha!!! finally the "CROOKS" of our corrupted govt. their lies,cover ups and god knows what else they done are uncovered. WORLD WIDE that is. they should be ashamed of themselves. i hope they get the punishment that they deserve...As for the people of samoa, let this be a lesson for us. Lord works in mysterious ways. He watches our every move. So "DO THE RIGHT THING".

Akenese Iosefo wrote:

31 Oct 2009 05:38 AM

In the light of this national attention, I think its time American Samoa revisit its current election laws. I am a US national and lost my right to vote in the local election simply because I moved to the mailand almost eight years ago. The only exceptions were students attending colleges (not paying tax), and just recently (thanks to Eni) men and women in the military. The past elections for governor showed just a handful of people (most likely all related to each other) voted for the current administration. I think this could help break the pattern of people voting to save their jobs, gained unnecessary promotions, increase in salary, and all other privileges received only because you're on the winning side. If you want to help American Samoa, its time we stand together and reclaim our right to vote. We may mot live there, but we are taxpayers in the US now and we paid our share for the millions of dollars mentioned on CNN. And we definately feel the "pain."

tele faalavelave wrote:	31 Oct 2009 03:38 AM
We spent Fed money on faalavelave. Tele le fia tagata i mea a isi. In Western Samoa, people went to prison because they steal govenment and business money to pay for faalavelave. Most of the money were used to pay for someone's saofai.

Afioga Le Autasi wrote:	30 Oct 2009 07:53 PM
Whatever the outcome is Govenor Tulafono, Please stay away from The Le'iato Title! You here me FamBam ! Protect our Family name and Lineage. "Gotto make a good oversights" AC360 stands for " A- always, C- count (on) 360 - what goes around, comes around! Peace from Signal Hill. . .

Anonymous wrote:	30 Oct 2009 07:28 PM
Don't be surprise if we see and hear families of those who lost their lives during tsunami will file class action lawsuit againt the government for its negligence for not installing the siren system. I just hope they will go ahead with the lawsuit.

Anonymous wrote:

30 Oct 2009 06:45 PM

Corruption: 1. the act or fact of making, becoming or being corrupt Corrupt: 1. deteriorated from the normal or standard; morally unsound or debased; evil According to Webster, the meaning of corruption is stated above along with its root word. Interesting enough, people are blindly including “samoan” in phrases among phrases of accusations of being corrupt and dishonest. One Samoan and his actions doesn't represent every Samoan so please stop being ignorant. Our government on island has always had that problem of corruption which the statement of “It’s who you know not what you know” has been fondly used for years. It is up to the people to ensure that our government will get the support they need and will then undergo changes for future governing. To the Governor and your Administration: Nothing can be done now that this tragedy has come and gone. This is your chance to show who you are and do everything within your power to fix this unfortunate disaster. Look within yourselves and join your people in their times of need and truly offer assistance. We are still feeling tremors after the unfortunate event, so we must look at installing those siren systems that were supposed to be in place for we are vulnerable right now. Please act now for you have the power to do so if not please step down and let someone that can do some good for it is greatly needed. To my people: Times are hard and we always come together during times of hardship and pain. That’s who we are, we are Samoans so be proud of it. We must now come together support those that have lost their loved ones, those that are in need and continue to pray for each other. Samoa fa’avae i le Atua. Support the Governor and his administration and give them a chance to fix this disaster that they could have prevented. O le Atua na te aumaia le manuia i latou e fa’amaoni, o le Atua fo’i na te fa’amasinoina I latou e agasala. I am proud to be a Samoan, for we are very emotional people. Times like these are when we show our true feelings, some good and some bad. Accusing others will not help but it is your right to voice your opinion. Now we must come together and be strong for the future as we take this lesson that life has given us and learn from it. Samoans on island and everywhere around the world all come together in times of need, which is just how we are. My opinion is that the Governor and its administration should be changed and everyone for the next administration be verified for proper credentials, qualifications and some kind of experience. I suggest that we act now in seeking this new administration before the U.S. steps in and make it for us. Show the U.S. that we can fix these issues that we have in house. If not, I suggest that an official from the U.S. be appointed Governor to have all the current ties to the current Governor severed and the corruption stopped. A new face in office will stir up those that are not qualified for positions that they are currently in. Having that said it is a process that won’t happen tomorrow or the next day. But with time and aggression towards immediate action will hinder results that are better than what we have now. For now, we need to stick together and help each other out. Samoa Loto Tasi!

TB wrote:

30 Oct 2009 06:41 PM

The Federal should appointed someone from the state to run the adminstatration. forget about voting for the governor and leaders..it just a waste of time nothing will ever change we need fresh faces and motivated ppl from the state to run and taking care of business. ppl are switch on and they don't have anything to do with the faasamoa and just concentrate on providing resourses to benefit the whole island things will improve dramatically.very disapponited and angry.

joe wrote:	30 Oct 2009 06:20 PM
cnn please stay on this story,because theres more to the story. Im ashamed to be consider a samoan...we should elect a canidate from the mainland to run samoan govt....

TOGIOLA SUPPORTER....NOT wrote:

30 Oct 2009 06:06 PM

Dear Togiola A. P. Tulafono, You bring great shame and disgust to our people both in the islands and abroad. Do us all a favor a step down from your position. You are not worthy to be entrusted with the title: Governor of American Samoa. In fact, you are not worthy of anything due to your HYPOCRYTICAL conduct towards our people. To the FBI, please dig deeper into this situation because you will find a lot more concealing their faces behind all this. May justice be served and grace be returned to our Heavenly Father!

Anonymous wrote:

30 Oct 2009 05:29 PM

Why are some of you advocating lawsuits which may very well bring forth another onslaught of disasters (i.e., more punishment), especially since the financial settlements, although at first sight may seem justified restitution, but in reality is nothing short than "blood money." The settlement money would be tainted. After all, the initial source of the origninal funding earmarked for a tsunami warning system is of and from the blood, sweat, and tears of the workforce, aka: taxpayers here in the United States and has been used fraudulently through the vices of corruption and greed. Two wrongs will never make a right. Instead, all of Samoa should return to their roots and flock to their churches with genuine repentance and put God first in their lives once more, (like their forefathers in the past), and rebuild a relationship with their God once more. Let God take care of the souls of their beloved family members who have gone on to their rest. Do not use the blood of your deceased loved ones as a means for financial gain. Seek and reseek God instead, and He will bless you abundantly for your faith and hearts of forgiveness and mercy. In other words, let go,(allow the FBI, the judicial system to take their course) and God will do the rest. That's what faith is all about.

islandsteelgal wrote:

30 Oct 2009 05:04 PM

My heart goes out to all the families who have lost loved ones from the tsunami as well as family members who have passed due to the third world hospital conditions. American Samoa should have a state of the art hospital from the funds received. My aunt had a near death experience in the past few weeks, as she was sick for almost 2 months in AS. She visited the hospital 4 different times. The doctors kept advising that she go home and rest because she had the flu. Her symptoms got worse and was in pain for two months before her son made the decision for her to seek help from doctors in the states. She was on the first flight out of Samoa after the tsunami and made it to a hospital within 12 hours of her arrival in the states. After the doctor's examined her and ran tests...her daughter received the news that she had a huge mass in her brain, kidneys were failing, weak heart, weak pancreas and a mild stroke. Within two days, she had brain surgery to remove what they thought was a tumor, however it was an infection. She is now recovering in rehab....thank God! How many of our loved ones have passed away due to the horrible conditions of the hospital and lack of hospital equipment. Too many of our loved ones suffer and in the midst of a medical emergency, those who have the money to flee to Hawaii, New Zealand, or the states have a better chance of making it. Is it fair that the unfortunate suffer and have to end up in the local hospital? Let's pray for a new hospital and medical centers in the villages that are far away from the hospital. How about a dialysis center instead of a call center?

MEAN DA DOPE wrote:	30 Oct 2009 02:34 PM
I GUESS THE SAMOAN HERITAGE WEEK WAS MORE IMPORTANT THEN THE WARNING SYSTEM THAT WAS NOT PUT IN PLACE. MAYBE THAT'S WHERE THE MONEY WENT. CON AIR SHOULD WARM UP IT'S ENGINE FOR A LONG FLIGHT TO AMERICAN SAMOA.

Lexicon wrote:	30 Oct 2009 01:26 PM
Just forgot something.... watch 2:22... "and any sign from the local gov't is hard to find"... I know there were assistance from local departments and agencies during the tsunami BEFORE FEMA arrived... either this guy recorded his reporting on that spot while FEMA's assessment was going on, or awaiting the cleaning jobs to come later on. Beware! the media really knows how to spin.

Lexicon wrote:

30 Oct 2009 01:16 PM

It's just a bunch of BS for the Feds to get hold of America Samoa's communal lands... Isn't ironic! If Togiola refused to accept the Federal deal, why didn't the Feds constantly ensue the issue to "mandate" an emergency siren? Why didn't the Feds settle and pursue the "funding mis-usage" issue separately, which literally affected protocals for fundings necessary to establish these sirens?... Lets not point fingers! Don't play the blame game here!... It's both the Feds and ASG's fault, including those failed to use common sense.... Now Birdie Alailima is in Illinois leaking puffs of air thinking he should be a hero out of this commotion.

TB wrote:	30 Oct 2009 01:05 PM
They ought to hang their heads in SHAME! I cannot belive so much money pouring inn and only 65thousands of the populations.Governor has failed his duty as a governor BIG TIME. Do yourself a favour and resign.

Anonymous wrote:	30 Oct 2009 12:54 PM
Oh, don't forget the orange coveralls for them to wear on the CONAIR.

If only CNN knew the rest of the stories... wrote:	30 Oct 2009 11:59 AM
Pandora's box has been opened. CNN has only scratched the surface. I challenge them to keep digging...they definitely won't be disappointed.

Sick of this Gov't wrote:

30 Oct 2009 10:32 AM

I live in Hawaii and i heard what Hawaii Government going to do to the rest of the stuffs that people are still donating for American Samoa, and It is not going to American Samoa, it's going straight to Western Samoa..It is so embarassing what American Samoa is going through. Hawaiian Gov't says, Enough for American Samoa, People are such crooks and Ignorant, I laugh at it, because I'am from American Samoa and just by listening to the Hawaii Gov't tellin the truth, OMG, i can't believe it, and i dnt blame them. Now, American Samoa gov't and it's leaders are making all the other samoans in the states look bad to each and everyone out here. How Dare you People of American Samoa especially the Govt and the leaders..Ya'll know what ya'll did with the money..it's better to turn' ya'll selfs in than waiting on someone out here to come and get ya'll. We need to have someone from the states and go to American Samoa and run that Sorry Gov't!!!

Fale wrote:

30 Oct 2009 10:13 AM

Wow, very self-serving for Berdie Alailima to go on CNN and enlighten everyone about corruption and all his nonsense. He was in charge when all this mess was happening years ago. Now all of a sudden he's trying to come off as Mr Integrity. Nice try there Birdie, but you failed miserably, because when you were in charge, you failed to take charge and do the right thing. One last thing, you were laid off not fired...and rightfully so, for mismanagement and ineffective leadership.

unitedwestand wrote:

30 Oct 2009 09:18 AM

And another thing, stupid is as stupid does. If you are so bold as to say this and that about the Fa'a Samoa then my friend you are not SAMOAN. The Fa'a Samoa is not to blame for the corruption if you truly understand and study the Fa'a Samoa and its ways you would know in your heart that it is truly a beautiful and HONEST culture by nature. It is the person/individual that is at fault not the culture. I am a firm believer in the American Way but at the same token hang on to my culture. No culture teaches how to embezzle,lie, cheat and steal so lets not talk about OUR culture in that text. As for our samoan people abroad talking about let America take over the samoan government lets not forget that the U.S. is over 2 Trillion dollars in debt and in the worst economic state in the history of this Planet. So no lets not let the U.S. take over our finances instead lets all work together with the MAINLAND for a better Samoa. And for the U.S. to cut American Samoa off all together that my friend is what only an uneducated person would say think about what you are saying and then make a comment, is that you saying that or is that YOUR pride. I am in no way,shape or form a Togiola supporter but to talk smack about him does nothing for the situation we find ourselves in, no; instead I am going to keep my head down and keep working towards a better solution for our people. That is what we all need to do keep working towards a better future for our children,family and people. Soifua ma ia manuia Samoa atoa.

unitedwestand wrote:

30 Oct 2009 08:35 AM

Okay people lets all just calm down....ok good!! Corruption is not something that happens only in samoa it also happens in the most powerful nation in the free world, The U.S., how many scams, corruption stories, and stories of "missing money" have been "exposed" by CNN. Lets be real people these ARE EDUCATED people in office how do you think this money goes "missing" for years before anyone takes notice, EDUCATION. We talk about "2 billion dollars of taxpayers money being misused by the samoan government..." HELLO we are also taxpayers so don't give me this "the people of the U.S. should take noticed because taxpayers money is being misused..." AS for the U.S. to pick our governor for us that is ridiculous and not to say UNCONSTITUTIONAL name one just one state, territory or commonwealth that the United States chooses a governor or mayor. Lets not generalize samoans as all being crooks and not trustworthy there are samoans out there that can make a difference IF GIVEN A CHANCE. WE ARE SAMOA and together we stand, this is a time for us to work together and fight for a better future this NOT the time to point fingers and set blame on others it is not only unproductive but "adding fuel to the fire." P.S. We do not need a siren to warn us about a Tsunami an 8.3 magnitude earthquake is more than enough warning. Our people did not die because there was no warning our people died because we were untrained in the event of a tsunami. So take that money and educate our people in time of disasters and what to do and where to go screw the frigan siren if I don't even know what to do if I heard it.

Fagatogo Product wrote:

30 Oct 2009 08:24 AM

Togiola A. P. Tulafono, I, as well as a majority of our people, ask that you do ourselves a favor and step down from your current position. You have led us into a period of turmoil and corruption. Behind every corrupted government is a corrupted leader. Everything starts from the top and works it down to lower levels. I don't understand why you would want to utilize U.S. funds supposedly for earthquakes sirens, to purchase items for other unnecessary belongings. Gain political votes? Being gregarious about the amount of power you hold? How could you possibly be so greedy? As far as my memory goes, you are the head of some religious institution at KANANA FOU, right? Don't you at some point ever feel any guilt, or shame, at your own actions? What's the point of you claiming such position when you behind that white suit you wear every Sunday, you're a HYPOCRITE. It's really absurd as a prospective worker of ASG currently seeking learning experiences abroad, to know that future job opportunities are hovered with uncertainty. Uncertainty established by you and other government officials that decided to jump on the bandwagon. You and your friends are like mosquitoes, you love to feed off of other human's (U.S. taxpayers) blood.

John Wasko wrote:	30 Oct 2009 06:56 AM
No major news organization carried the CNN story. That's a wake up call there was something flawed with the reporting. And they just decided we can leave the finger pointing until after we serve the needs of victims and their families

Ala wrote:	30 Oct 2009 04:21 AM
TO "NO FEDERAL OVERSIGHT" So whats the point of electing officials? What happend to putting trust in our officials to do the right thing. Its obvious now FEDERAL OVERSIGHT is needed now. So why not just go back to the FEDS appointing a GOV. yea that will go over like flies on S#$T, but i think thats what needs to happen. Thanks Gov Togiola for destroying the FEDS trust in Am Samoa.

Ala wrote:	30 Oct 2009 04:15 AM
CORRUPTION!!! Finally caught up to ASG, prayers go out to those who lost family but now they know whos responsible. ASG has their blood on their hands. SO WHO'S GETTING PROSECUTED FOR MURDER BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT IT IS!!

INTEGRITY wrote:	30 Oct 2009 02:13 AM
American Samoa, the good Lord is watching over you. The Governor and everyone that have defraud, embezzle from Federal Funds will have there day in court. Talking of Federal Funds, I hope CNN and Feds look into the DOE. Trips and Vacation for some all paid by DOE funding. DOE your day will come--the man above is looking down.

Anonymous wrote:

29 Oct 2009 11:33 PM

I WOULD SAY LETS ALL STOP BLAMING OTHER PEOPLE AND START USING THE ENERGY TO GIVE IDEAS IN BUILDING A BETTER GOVERNMENT. NOTHING WILL BE ACCOMPLISH IF ALL URE DOING IS COMPLAINING. COMPLAIN AND MAKE SURE U HAVE THE BRAINS AND THE COURAGE TO EVEN TO LOOK FOR A PERSON THAT WON'T BE DOING THIS KIND OF CRABS. USE UP THE ENERGY WISELY DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME COMPLAINING IT WONT MAKE ANY GOOD IF YOU COMPLAIN TOO MUCH. NOBODY IS PERFECT, IF YOU THINK YOU ARE PERFECT THAN KEEP IT UP BUT IF NOT DAN JUST SAVE THE BREATH TO PRAY AND NOT TO COMPLAIN.

Mr.804147 wrote:

29 Oct 2009 11:30 PM

Don't be so quick to throw anybody under the bus. It could be your uncle or your brother or your dad. We treat eachother like family..something other cultures don't do. Stick to what we know and don't let anybody shake us. We made the news today...tomorrow it will be somebody else and when all the cameras are gone and the interviews are over... It will once again...Just be us... so don't turn on your uso over what the palagi investigates. If something is wrong in the government keep it in the house and fix it in the house. We deal with this stuff everyday... so let's act like the loving people we are and learn to forgive those that have done wrong.

TULI wrote:

29 Oct 2009 10:35 PM

It was very disturbing for me to watch CNN's 2-Part Investigative Report, but at the same time, I was glad that it came out. The informative report exposed our Government leaders' failure to manage vital matters of our 68,000 populated homeland. CNN's investigative report clearly lays primary fault on the Government's lack of disaster preparedness, mismanagement of federal funds, and corruption. Let's look at the facts. The undisputed facts clearly show that our Government had received a grand total sum amount of a whopping $2 billion of U.S. federal taxpayers' money beginning from 1995 to 2009. The undisputed facts also show that the Territorial Office of Homeland Security (TOHS) had received funds from the 2005 State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) to conduct a study, procure and eventually install an 'early warning siren system' projected for completion in 2007, just two years prior to the tsunami natural disaster. The study was completed and preparations for installations were progressing until the TOHS staff were disbanded, suddenly terminated just two years prior to the tsunami natural disaster. This misjudgment and poorly executed decision most certainly hindered the country's progress in preparing itself to deal with a predicted natural disaster, thus placing the country and it's beloved people in harm's way. As a result of the lack of 'early warning siren systems' in place, the tsunami destroyed homes, businesses, properties, and claimed lives, just two years after when the 'early warning siren systems' were expected to be installed. Moreover, the undisputed facts show that this was a colossal failure of our Government leaders at both federal and local levels. For the past 5 to 6 years our elected eleventh term U.S. Congressman and our elected Governor have publicly made negative comments in the news about each other's disagreements on various pending governmental projects where at times it appeared as tantamounting to character attacks. But what the two leaders failed to do was focus on the most important project of all, for the security of our people, the protection to homes and properties, and the protection of life. Government leaders failed to follow-through in preparing our country for a predicted natural disaster. Government leaders clearly lacked the awareness of events on the ground, the political dealings and infightings between agencies, and of establishing a check and balance system on all U.S. federally funded projects within the Territory. It is evident that Government officials must be held accountable for their mismanagement, misjudgment, and poorly executed decisions.

taia wrote:	29 Oct 2009 09:33 PM
wow why u people elect him for ????? to late to apologize,,,,,,,is it cause u people got a job from him or family ??? it's ok FBI please lock him ,,,,,

Anonymous wrote:	29 Oct 2009 09:20 PM
I saw a KHNL (HI) story (10/28/09) with Gus Hannemman making comments about the CNN story. He was dismissive and arrogant about the misuse of funds. I'm offended by his comments and saddened that KHNL asked him to comment.

Alataua Lua wrote:

29 Oct 2009 06:16 PM

Somebody's responsible for this,the funds didn't come up missing on it's own. Call it what you want..."finger pointing" or whatever but the fact of the matter is: the people that lost their lives could've possibly made refuge if there was an alarm system installed. This governor made it in office due to a majority vote.There is some exaggeration with the media (CNN) but the unexplained funds that's missing isn't. Plain and simple, we don't have an alarm system because the funds that was supposed to be invested into this is gone. People of Samoa as a whole isn't responsible. This is strictly isolated and points strictly towards the governor and his officials. Our people's and our matai system is not at fault. Our culture is precious until it's abused by greedy, and crook individuals. If you can't cope with the "fa'a Samoa" then stay from it. (IF YOU CAN'T STAND THE HEAT THEN STAY OUT OF THE KITCHEN)...soifua!!!

Anonymous wrote:	29 Oct 2009 06:07 PM
David Kulberg...aren't you the head of Temco who was appointed by Mike Sala and Jacinta Brown? Why are you spending your time writing? Shouldn't you be out there helping our people who are on CNN begging for govt help? Go do your job. Our people are still suffering.

''IM WATCHIN YOU'' wrote:

29 Oct 2009 05:59 PM

My prayers goes out to all the innocent people who lost their lives to Tzunami in Samoa,especially to the mother who had lost her beautiful six years old daughter in the viliage of Leone to the tsunami,.they would "NOT BE VICTIMS",if the government of American Samoa had do their part in making sure that SAMOA HAD WELL INSTALL WEATHER ALERT SYSTEM",you guys never thought that samoa will never,ever get TSUNAMI. Well! Governor of American Samoa, shame on you! I work in Washington and im proud to be Samoan and did alot of fund raising to help out our people,.but seen the CNN News and local papers, one word for the government and governor of American of Samoa "GREED". Now a little advise to the government and governor, no matter what you do, good or bad!.THE BIG GUYS ARE WATCHING YOU" so return every personal things that you spend our tax money on it and put Samoa back to our beautiful home land! And next time you get interview on CNN make sure you don't slurred on your words.

Actions, not Words. wrote:

29 Oct 2009 05:52 PM

It is an abarassment among every Am.Samoan living in the main land, and hard working honest people residing in the Island-non supporters of the current shameful governor. There's alot we can say to express our opinions and feelings towards these acts of corrupted leaders. There are so many who are at fault- all those who supported these lunatics in office(you should be ashamed of yourselves) and the leaders who think they can make a difference in the lives of people there on Island. Well, if you really want to make a change due to all that illegal commotions going on in the government, then get smart and start rolling down a petition to remove this shameful governor out of office. It's time that the people of Samoa should stand up and do the wright thing- you need to put the culture(Fa'asamoa)aside and bring out the truth. The mixture of the culture and Federal grant do not mix. It's like mixing 2 flammable solutions that'll create an explosion. And this is really what Federal Grant is going into the Am. Samoa gov't.- It's money taken from Poor people in a Rich country(US) to Rich leaders and servants of a poor Island like Samoa. Petition to Impeach the governor and all guilty parties is the answer to these problems. We need actions, not just words and complaints. It's not going to solve anything.

EVA Mai wrote:	29 Oct 2009 05:37 PM
Just wanted to say this about how our government is run and operate, " IT'S WHO YOU KNOW NOT WHAT YOU KNOW"...LOL,

Lele wrote:

29 Oct 2009 05:23 PM

Props to Samoa News for posting this avoidable crisis? unfortunately said to say it could have happened anywhere in the world, but for some of us samoan folks who live off island i was somewhat embarrassed when i saw it LIVE on CNN last night...Almost a year ago/Nov. '08 when Gov. Togiola got re-elected back in office i was able to recap exactly what i'd mentioned when this gentlemen won again...ASG you need to vote and hope for CHANGE... "Change is the law of life. And those who only look to the past or present are certain to miss the future." - Quote on Quote by one of my all time favorites or old school president who i admire R.I.P. John F. Kennedy"..this is a wake-up call for our samoan leaders and the community to come together and change the way you guys run your gov't change is good for the soul! Side note to "The Department of Homeland Security" pls help ASG with this construction for an on island-wide siren warning system they definitely need this system to save more lives in the future...Life goes on and lets move forward people and learn from our mistakes....Gov. T- what you should have answered on this CNN interview is to humble yourself and tell the world you would like to re-visit this budget and to get it approve if all possible and you don't recollect if this application ever reached for verification of feds approval at least you don't look bad for saying you were trying to get verification but you couldn't get an answer Gov. T you should just be a lawyer and not a Governor eh! People of Am. Samoa hope for change on your next election to get someone who's intelligent (be able to read people's minds and not criminal/corrupted minds to serve the samoan community with some dignity to put our island back to basic knowledge and to use these federal funds wisely) we are ALL effected by this horrible tsunami crisis...It's all over the news in the US and the majority of samoans who live off island are coming together and be supporters of this unexpected emergency and gather donations from different nationalities and it's nice to know there's a lot of alofa's to both islands of samoa..the majority of our local samoan church community in cali have donated a couple of containers already shipped via polynesian line with cases of bottle waters, can foods, clothes, etc...We have a mission team who's currently on both islands distributing these items to the tsunami victims who's in desperate need for help!...I pray to God to restore our island for a cleaner environment and a safe place to live for the sake of our people...May the good Lord bless the people Am. Samoa & Samoa, Follow him through struggles, happiness, and at any time - Amen!

EVA Mai wrote:

29 Oct 2009 03:50 PM

What an EMBARRASSMENT, our tiny island and probably the smallest territory of the US ever and look what is happening. Shame on the leaders of our territory. From what I know and hear from the CNN is that it started from 1995 when the US grant them funds I mean some real funds to help our government with important issues like installing sirens systems in case of a major disaster and etc.etc. But look what happen, nothing has done, disaster strike, people die, and now the blaming fight....lol...very disappointed at my own people. I am not on anyones side but lets do the math, 1995-2009, governor so and so was leading the territory up to now is Togiola. Looks like it was messed up somewhere from 1995 up to now. I bet theres a lot of the higher rank government officials that was involve in this fraud thingy.Happy Halloween.

Anonymous wrote:	29 Oct 2009 03:08 PM
Don"t be surprised when CONAIR lands at Tafuna Int'l Airport some time soon.... I mean reaaaaal soon!!

Anonymous wrote:

29 Oct 2009 02:27 PM

Let's not kid ourselves. The headlines about the corruption in American Samoa is NOTHING new. The fact that it made headlines on CNN has definitely opened up a "can of worms". I am utterly disgusted and quite frankly appaulled of the governor's interview. The fact of the matter is, the government failed- BIGTIME! Nobody and I mean NOBODY(in the government) wants to fess up. The media is going to run with this investigation and rightfully so!

DO THE RIGHT THING wrote:

29 Oct 2009 01:16 PM

Dear Governor, do the right thing and step down. You have not only embarrased the honest & good people of American Samoa but you have shown how ignorant you are. The investigation report by CNN is a blessing for us all. Your interview showed so much facial & body expressions that just said "GUILTY". You are now closer than ever to the FBI & DOI's radar. You will be under a microscope until the day a C130 US Coast Gaurd plane comes here with a dozen Federal investigators to haul your okole to the US Federal Court. During your watch we have again made world news from human trafficking to outright murder with all 34 people killed because you saw fit to use Federal money earmarked for a siren system on things ASG needed most like SUV's, off Island trips, Flat Screen T.V.'s & the list goes on. Do the right thing and put your pride behind you. RESIGN.

Alataua Lua wrote:	29 Oct 2009 12:45 PM
A lawsuit should be on full swing by the families who lost their loved-ones due to this tragedy. This is a strong case because the facts proves that the government of Samoa misused the funds that was suppose to invest into an alarm system in an attempt to save lives.

anonex wrote:

29 Oct 2009 12:44 PM

Actually, after watching that repulsive story on CNN, I was grateful that Utu Abe Malae didn't win the governor post last election. Look at the disaster he would have inherited. Really? A US territory of 65,000 inhabitants and 6,000 people on the government payroll? So how did American Samoa receive over $2,000,000,000 of US taxpayer dollars since '95? Oh, yes, from the long-term congressman who's been applying for these grants knowing that the money has not benefited wholly. My heart ached seeing those kids with wheelbarrows in all that filth. Yes, we've seen the same photos across the web; but the video footage just made my stomach turn. Governor Togiola looked pitiful with his back up against the wall in this interview with Drew Griffin. In America, schools are closing, class sizes increasing, government employees are furloughed, budget cuts everywhere. With this being common knowledge among now, Americans are outraged and rightfully so. CNN covered this straightforward and the story should be linked somewhere here on SN (both segments). I wonder if the officials watched it all on their plasma TVs...

concerned American Samoan citizen wrote:

29 Oct 2009 11:54 AM

I can just hear it now, US saying that we need to go back to the old ways where the AS governor is appointed by the US. Is this what we (Samoans) want? Our ancestors fought so hard to ensure US doesn't completely take over our lands, and our Fa'asamoa. It's not the culture that's wrong! It's the person. Do NOT generalize Samoans. There are well educated Samoans with degrees. An honest man doesn't need a degree to be honest. The culture is not at fault,like any government, there are bad apples. If someone from the US appoints a governor leader for AS, he/she won't understand the Fa'asamoa and will just be frustrated. Besides, there are dishonest governmental officials in the US as well, who's to say the one appointed won't be just as corrupted. If anything, a combined effort, someone needs to take responsibility, whether it be the US congressman or a director who manages ALL the funds coming from the US to properly distribute to the right cause and paperwork should ALL be supplied and signed by these parties involved so if something goes awry, the authorized signatures are to answer to the FBI.

Talofa e Samoa wrote:

29 Oct 2009 11:02 AM

What an embarassment. This is what you get for voting for Togiola. But the truth is, all the blood of those that lost their lives in the tsunami is on Togiola's hand. What happen to the sirens that we had in 2006? I forgot, the governor and his so call worker used up all the funds and the project was not complete. So much for caring for American Samoan. This is caring for one's self. Please, stop being selfish. This was just a warning for the island. Please do not let the people suffer for your mistakes.

Vindication for the Tsunami Victims and the Innocent people who wrongfully lost their jobs due to th wrote:

29 Oct 2009 11:01 AM

There has been Federal Oversight but that has not been done up until the recommendations of the U.S. General Accountability Office in December 2004 and followed up with audits of American Samoa's financial management done back in June 2005 where the Department of Insular Affairs declared American Samoa as HIGH RISK to receive federal grants. American Samoa since 2005 has not satisfied the 3 conditions in order to unfreeze the DHS federal grant funds for the sirens. Therefore, public safety and welfare is not a priority with these corrupt government officials who are currently in office now. Their greed and negligence is what led to an innocent people losing their jobs including the man, Alailima, who had recommended a plan to help save lives but now sad to say we lost 34 precious lives because of this corruption!

Anonymous wrote:

29 Oct 2009 10:57 AM

But come next election of course, when they're passing out BBQ chicken & turkey tail plates by the cases to everyone, all will be forgotten and how "generous" he was to feed your entire household will be the determining factor in who gets the vote. This is so shameful and I am so digusted that they can sit on an interview and LIE and not show any sign of remorse. RIDICULOUS!! FBI needs to investigate every single department and/or agency. Using our people as an excuse to allocate funds for your personal satisfaction. And WE see NOTHING! Our CHILDREN SEE NOTHING!! They have to bring even more supplies to help schools while you big shots are rolling high in your SUVS and chillin' on your "leather executive chairs". So embarrassing! NO WE DO NOT NEED TO ELECT ANOTHER LOCAL!! WE NEED A US APPOINTED GOVERNOR....PERIOD! Apparently if people are persuaded easily with monetary donations and lunch plates then we shouldn't be voting for our officials. Thats sad, because I would want to exercise my right, but if it makes a BETTER DIFFERENCE, then so be it!

BigManua wrote:

29 Oct 2009 10:51 AM

I second the motion to have the Department of the Interior appointed a Governor for AS. Ever since they start electing their own governor in 1977, the people of AS, being suffer. Am Samoan people that vote for this clown in power, should be ashame voting for them. There are a lot of people on the island that knows, this clowns were benefit from all this money the US Government is sending to AS. Thank God, someone is tracking how much money is going to the AS government, and nothing to show for it. I know it's going to take a long time to conduct this investigation, and hope they can bring those who miss use tax payer money to justice. I also hope they found them guilty. The FBI need to investigate all department of government, include senate/house of representitive, DOE, DOL, DPW, DES, DOS. I'm sure a governor appointed by the DOI, will put $2 Billion in good use, on the island, and a lot will show for the money well spend. He will also not place people from their family or relativies in position they are not qualify for. I'm a true Samoan born an raised in Manua, but now reside in the United State after retired from the military after 25 yers of service. I'm not ashamed of what I saw on CNN, 360. It happen b/c the people of AS, let it happen. I hear a lot of things going on, during campaign for government position, family who fight b/c some other family members siding with other people they think they will benefit from if they win. The other thisg is, samoan people will try to get something for free if they can. People in position for government job will do illegal things to make money, and not do what is right. The people elect them in office to work for the people and make sure they do the right things. I think the government to be hell liable for what happen, and family who love one should be well compensated. People on the islane shoud petition to have the DOI appointed a governor for AS in the next election.

Anonymous wrote:

29 Oct 2009 10:36 AM

It is really ashamed to have this come out.This was meant to be b/cause this has been going on for a long,long time and it's time for these corrupted so called leader to answer to there CRIMES, and thank's to the FBI for this investigation we need to send out a loud message that corrupted people need to be ib Jail and they deserve to be there. These so called Leader's have no LOVE for our people of AM.Samoa,they only care for them self's but the HELL with the our People.Well to tell you the truth Governor and Your administration Judgment is coming your way. When God Show's up and Let the People and the World know what's going on he will cut you down LOW. You use his name in vain and now he has let OUR PEOPLE AND THE WORLD KNOW WHO YOU REALLY ARE. No one will run from him. You can Run but you Can't hide You are a disgrace to our People.A very upset Citizen!!!

Chain Chain Chain, Chain of Fools wrote:

29 Oct 2009 10:19 AM

Dear ASG Administration: I lump all you guys (Togiola, Big Bird, etc. etc. etc.) in the same boat. The hand cannot condemn the foot for walking the wrong way. Long ago you became very creative with how to spend free money from Uncle Sam, and before you knew it, two billion was just gone with the wind. Two billion. That's more than it would take to buy the cannery. How does two billion just get wasted? (I want an invitation to that party!) If you'd saved some of that two billion, you could have purchased the cannery in the name of homeland security, i.e. providing economic security for the homeland. That way we wouldn't have a natural disaster followed by an economic disaster. People, if all the free money from Uncle Sam had gone where it was SUPPOSED to go, can you imagine what a first class place to live American Samoa would be? Great schools, great roads, great health care, great environment protection - there was enough money to provide all of that, yet that's not quite the picture we have, is it? I'm not saying American SAmoa is a lost cause, but with REAL government, not self-serving crooks, it could be so much better.

NENA wrote:

29 Oct 2009 09:39 AM

LMAO!! This is when the United States of America will PULL THE PLUG from American Samoa if American Samoa will continue to MISUSE FEDERAL FUNDS. Hello? Wake Up? Economy is not in good shape right now, the Congress and President Obama worked so hard to get this fund allocated for us because of what happened to us the past month. How can we do such thing in return? PLEASE WE GOTTA WALK THE TALK that we ARE GOD FEARING PEOPLE. What happened to the "SAMOA MUAMUA LE ATUA" motto? We are all over CNN, Hawaiian Local News, 60minutes and Jay Leno show, what else do you want to be known for in FRAUD American Samoa? Oh please and stop blaming the Governor, the Governor can't do anything because his decision is influenced by those in his cabinets (legislation and house) and so as us (citizens and soon to be citizens and wants to be citizens and are not citizens of American Samoa). The Governor is US too. SO STOP ALL THAT BLAMING WHO and WHO, I'm tired of hearing all that pieces. American Samoa, we got to work together to get the American Samoa NAME clear from all these FRAUD games. GOSH!! The taxpayers here in America are suffering too because not only they are suffered from Medical Fraud but their retirement funds are also at risk. So STOP ALL THAT WHINNING and BLAMING and WHATSOEVER, this is not the time to do that, this is the time to STAND UP and START NEW THINGS, this is RENAISSANCE of NEW IDEAS in American Samoa, so the only person that can make it work is YOU and of course YOU thats reading this right now. BE THE CHANGE of something thats WORTH and not something thats WORTHLESS. "life is to short in doing all those worthless stuffs." oh and please stop making American Samoa GOVERNMENT HISTORY dirty and stinky, make it look interesting and nice for your sons and daughters and new generations beautiful for them to read when they grow up.

Ernestina wrote:	29 Oct 2009 09:30 AM
NO Federal Oversight: It looks like you're a strong supporter of the current government. Guess what, you mentioned the Cat and the Mouse.... Cat - FBI Mouse - Current Government To make it short - Cat eat the mouse.

Ernestina wrote:	29 Oct 2009 09:08 AM
News from Anderson Cooper says "American Samoa IS an American territory, but in some parts, it looked to me like the third world". Well, CONGRATULATIONS to the Governor & the current government. Now we're FAMOUS around the globe, most people finally realized that our part of the world is "AN AMERICAN TERRITORY". In what ways? You can answer that! Action speaks louder than words.....lol

Ava wrote:	29 Oct 2009 09:01 AM
Stop the whining and complaining folks. You get what you elected into office. American Samoa will continue to be an embarrassment for all the world to see. For the last time, start putting ethical and qualified leaders into office. And I disagree with Mr Purple Heart, because Abe Malae is and would have been the answer for us.

Heads up... wrote:

29 Oct 2009 08:58 AM

Purple Heart, there were governors before who led the people satisfyingly, Coleman and Lutali. I can't say for the other and definitely, this one...how terrible and kuluku he looked...signs of guilt. You know, I have said over and over again, with all the money pouring into our islands from the fed, we should have a state of the art kind of living. After an absence of 8 years and going back for a faalavelave, the state of the island from the outside is a sign that nothing has changed if not worse. While this is terribly embarrassing, we Samoans hold our heads up high, and stand as the proud people that God created. We each answer for our actions and all those guilty, it is theirs to carry. Let people in the world know that we are good people by continuing to be kind, hospitable, and put God first. God Bless our Samoan people.

Anonymous wrote:	29 Oct 2009 08:52 AM
This has been goin on for to long now..i hope the FBI goes there and cleans house..these CROOKS have been in charge of the ASG for too long..those of you who voted for this CROOK i hope u learned ur lesson..you had the opportunity to bring change but chose to reelect this guy..Samoans stealing from Samoans..these CROOKS have cost the Samoan people money and in this case LIFE

Anonymous wrote:	29 Oct 2009 08:41 AM
As someone already mentioned, things don't happen for no reason and the consequences of actions and decisions made by Government official are sufferings to Samoan people. Alofa le Atua faamafanafana i aiga uma sa aafia i lenei faalavelave.

Keep Talking While You Can ! wrote:

29 Oct 2009 08:19 AM

Typical Samoans ! Why Point Fingers. Are Governments Has Been Like This For Years. You Think That One Man Can Be Governor and Change Everything In A Snap Of A Finger. So Dont Blame Him For Things That Was Not His Fault. I Think That If You Stopped Saying Non-sense and Go Help Out Things Might Go Better. Stop Complaining But Do Something Better. I Give Our GOV. Props For Having The GUTS To Face People Of American Samoa.

Taualaga a Solomona wrote:	29 Oct 2009 08:13 AM
You fired an innocent man with a plan and the whole population suffered because of that. First with the tsunami and loss of lives and now the shame and embarassment of Samoans all over the world. E tuai ae fai mai. What goes around,comes around 360.. Se ua mapu ea le atunuu Pe lagona mai i Pulotu Pe o se ua to i Papatea Samoa ea,Samoa ea, oi Samoa ea O A FEA EA? Ia manuia le folauga.

Lena wrote:

29 Oct 2009 08:12 AM

Oh come on!!like this is any new news to us all samoa. like we never knew about the billions of dollars being sent for aid and many more. like we never knew where it would go and how it would be used. SHUT UP!! shut up with your blames...if there is any blaming,blame yourselves, for believing that a system, a corrupted system of matai would be the best way to manage a government. you stood by...you KNEW! YOU KNEW!! and now FINALLY, FINALLY the world knows....disgusted is not the word...its shame!!YES..I AM ASHAME!! do you think the millions of taxpayers here in America would like to know that we throw away the money they struggle to make...you think they would care now that they know the truth? blame yourselves for not wanting to take action to improve the government even if it meant to sacrafice the matai system...i dont learn about my culture from a matai system. I learn it at home...with family...in church...like we are not already americanized in a way. Have I lost who I am and where I come from? NO! YOU? blame yourselves...not the governor, not the corrupted system, not those idiot leaders...but YOU for supporting even when you KNEW it was wrong...blame YOU for standing by and letting it happen. BLAME YOURSELVES!!you think Barrack Obama became president because the majority placed him there...NO..he won because the majority of MINORITIES placed him there. Because those who wanted CHANGE...FOUGHT for it! so blame YOU!! Because you stood by and let it happen.BLAME YOURSELVES!!BLAME...YOUR--SELVES!!

I Knew All Along! wrote:

29 Oct 2009 08:09 AM

Why did you people vote for Togiola in the first place....he basically took over from Sunia ...u need an honest and educated Samoan...or even better...an afakasi to run that place. Born and raised there, but never going back until they clean up their act and that island...too many "I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine" attitudes! Honesty is the best policy...one that hasn't been used in ASG in years! AS had the chance this past election to get rid of Togiola! What the heck were they thinking of re-electing him again??? Hhhhmmmm...connections??? HHHHmmmm...if I elect Togiola again then I can get some mula for my aiga??? People...get rid of him and elect someone to clean up his mess, and make sure that it actually happens or something else will happen again....Toigola has to pay for those innocent people that lost their lives.

DISGUSTED wrote:

29 Oct 2009 08:06 AM

ASG doesn't properly honor our brothers and sisters serving in the military (RIP Matt) and even with 34 dead, our Leader "did not comment" when asked about the funds. I'm glad we know now the level of respect this guy has for those who perished in the Tsunami as well as their families. He is an elected official and he owes the ppl of AS an explanation. If he can't provide that, an investigation is underway anyway to get those answers. Expose all of them. Like cockroaches..when you shine light on 'em..they'll scatter. My condolences to all the family members who lost loved ones.

Samoa Mo Le Atua. wrote:	29 Oct 2009 07:46 AM
the day the tsunami happen. i was talking with my mom on the phone & i was telling her if they has a warning system. none of the people would be dead. ia no wonder why there wasn't a warning system. &finally, somebody had got on to what the governor had been doing all this time. he should be fired & be thrown in jail. what a shame ? i'm so ashame of this.

socarates wrote:	29 Oct 2009 07:40 AM
i have not seen one protest sign around the govenor's mansion or on the streets. if you are a democracy (which i doubt), show your displeasure on the streets.

Anonymous wrote:	29 Oct 2009 07:22 AM
Shame on you Governor, you really looked like an idiot on your interview...That 2billion was sent to Am Samoa, that money was for to install the siren system, but,instead you used it to hired your extra personnel...do yourself a favor, Quit and be done with it...because the men in black are on the way to Am Samoa...(FBI Go get them)........

MEAN DA DOPE wrote:	29 Oct 2009 06:25 AM
MY POOR SAMOA, KALOFAE ILE ATUNU'U. OUR HEARTS DROPPED WHEN MY WIFE AND I SEEN THAT FOOTAGE ON CNN. MANY FAMILIES LOST LOVED ONES CAUSE AMERICAN SAMOA GOVERNMENT WAS NOT PREPARED TO "ALERT" IT'S PEOPLE OF THE DANGER AHEAD AFTER THE TSUNAMI.

Anonymous wrote:	29 Oct 2009 06:19 AM
Here's a word that comes to mind "IMPEACH"

A SAD SOLDIER! wrote:	29 Oct 2009 06:14 AM
I TOTALLY AGREE WITH EVERYONE'S OPINION.I HOPE AMERICA WILL APPOINT ALL THE AM. SAMOAN LEADERS FROM AMERICA AND NO MORE POLITICS FROM OUR ISLAND....TSUNAMI CAME FOR A REASON, SO THE TRUTH CAN FINALLY REVEAL AND OUT FOR THE WHOLE WORLD TO SEE. WHAT A HUGE EMBARASSMENT TO US SAMOAN IN THE ARMED FORCES WORKING OUR HEARTS OUT FOR OUR FREEDOM. SOIFUA!

Marathon Guy wrote:

29 Oct 2009 05:31 AM

Two Thousand Million Dollars!!!! Wheeuussh....WOW! No, not Five Hundred or Nine hundred, but Two Thousand Million? What the HECK! UNBELIEVABLE!!! Do you know how I found out, about 2 days ago, while at work and checking my email two of my friends a Palagi and a Puerto-Rican forward me the article. Well, I didn’t believe it at first until I read it and boy I was so embarrassed. HEY Mr. No Fed Oversight: So you are telling us it is fine to spent money carelessly when nobody is looking? So, how much you and your family got out of this money? Sounds like you are one of the employees already being blessed with portion of this money. You should be ashamed of yourself. Per Capita, with current population of NC that’s little over 280 Billion dollars missing, I’m just trying to fathom the idea of 2 Billion VS American Samoa. Where it all go??????? I cant wait to see how's the Government Official going to come up with a plan for Damage Control.

GBPACKERS wrote:

29 Oct 2009 05:27 AM

The Samoan people were given the oppurtunity to elect their own "Governor" so it can go inside with the culture, not to ruine or disgrace the most beautiful culture in the world..and now, we have more curruption and the island lost more businesses/companies that would have put more people to work and provide for their families...To have spent the money that was meant for providing resources for the safety of the people American Samoa is a criminal offense and if it is federal fund, that would make more a federal offense... those who were involved in the misuse of the funds..should be remove from their post and prosecute, starting from the governor and his whole entire staff...The sad thing about this governor is that, he came of parents values, who had taught him the word of the lord,be honest and to do the right thing for the people, not to steal from the people...His parents were minister/pastor(faifeau-Ekalesia Lamosa)in Aunu'u and Faga'itua..and for him to go down this path, is a shame....To the people of samoa, there will be more curruption now, as long as he (Togiola) is in office and the funds keeps pouring in from all over the world to help those who lost everything, these people will built more fancy homes, buy new and bigger cars, takes more shopping trips/vacation while the rest are still trying to put their lives back... The Samoans once or maybe twice had it nice, when our governor was appointed and when Lutali was in office..The island was clean and beautiful, the first lady Susana was always out in the community or a village planting flowers along the road side...now, that's no longer the case...and with all that money the U.S.A poured into the island, one would think that the island should or would be the best place to be in the south pacific, despite of its size...again, not the case, but because of the poor governing, greed lots of it and improper/misused of funds Am.Samoa will never be as good as other U.S. territories. finally, I have this to say to the Governor and his staff, "what goes around will comes around", and I hope when it comes it comes very hard on you and your groupies...and for my beautiful people that lost loved ones,....SUE THE HELL OUT OF THE GOVERNOR AND ANYONE THAT WAS INVOLVED IN THE MISUSED OF THOSE FUNDS....GOD BLESS THE GOOD PEOPLE OF SAMOA AND PUNISH THE EVIL DOERS

cLaH wrote:

29 Oct 2009 03:46 AM

I agree with the comment above that "people in the US no longer have sympathy"...i am currently a college student in MO and it's saddening to have everyone's support and donations to put together a fundraising just for you (SAMOA) and this is what they get in return?? Really ASG? Governor? What a way to repay what America's done for YOU!! To the people of American Samoa, it's time for change. All this "voting for family" crap has GOT TO STOP. This is the person MAJORITY of you voted for, and now your complaining??!! Stop with the Samoan MENTALITY of things, I'm not saying all of the mentalities are wrong, but it's time to STEP UP OR STEP DA HECK OUT!!

David Kulberg wrote:

29 Oct 2009 03:40 AM

Has everyone forgotten that Mr. Birdie Alailima was in charge during this period of widespread mismanagement? How can CNN do such a poor job of research not to see the connection? Since Mr. Alailima was fired, Mike Sala and Jacinta Brown and the small staff at ASDHS have worked long and hard to account for the misused funds and demonstrate a new level of accountability. It has taken more than two years but finally funding is again beginning to flow and be utilized in the manner intended. CNN, get the whole story!

Dallin wrote:	29 Oct 2009 03:22 AM
What a revelation. But at least it has been brought out to light. In Western Samoa if the media investigates, the government amends the constitution to make the crime legal. So to my friend who wishes that living in Western Samoa is better... please don't. The prime ministership doesn't have term limits.

VJG wrote:

29 Oct 2009 02:38 AM

Samoans are no different than any other ehtnic group. Give them a little bit of speculation, and everyone has a DEFINITE understanding of the entire situation. I am in no way a Togiola supporter; I didn't vote for him. But I am entertained at the comments made on this forum where people speculate and believe their own conclusions instead of making an educated and informed decision about this situation. It's so easy to point the finger, but the truth of the matter is, WE ARE ALLL RESPONSIBLE. Samoan mentality has not changed since Samoan time began. We are all enclosed in a bubble known as Samoan ethnocentrism, and unless we change some the bad, the good of the Fa'asamoa will never be realized. If you had watched the CNN report with a critical and objective eye, and also read the accompanying article, you would have known that some of what was reported was a bit of an exaggeration. This does not mean that there is NO CORRUPTION in American Samoa, far from it. There is a blatant disregard for proper management of federal monies, but they lumped together the issue of mismanagement of Homeland Security funds with current aide being given to the territory. From the outsider it would seem that our local government "workers" are not out there working. They are, I know personally that the Fono employees were sent out to rural villages to help with the clean up efforts. However, you take disgruntled individuals who haven't received what they wanted WHEN they wanted and exacerbated the entire issue. There are good and wholesome people back home, who genuinely care for the well being of everyone. Making gross generalizations about Samoans is unfair; and I'm speaking to Samoans as well. Don't get caught up in media propaganda, learn the FACTS (not what you THINK is true), before you go running off at the mouth. I applaud those that have spoken up, and CNN for shedding light on our corruption back home, it was well over due. But in the process, be aware that even innocent, productive, and honest individuals also get caught in the cross fire.

Anonymous wrote:

29 Oct 2009 02:25 AM

Was this a surprise to anyone, I think not. We have all known for years about our government. Those of us who live on island and those of you who have moved away our government is no different then it was before. Way to go FBI put them behind bars. I think we need to get a governor from the states like we had before to clean house and get things back on track. It is really embrassing to see that our island looks like a third world country to outsiders and then they look at our government with all this lavish purchases. Shamefull

Anonymous wrote:

29 Oct 2009 12:40 AM

How embarrassing!! So selfish and so much pride is this government. Some of the lost lives lost where those who worked so hard for this crooked government. What a way to display my beautiful little island to the world!! Then to have Gus Hanneman come on the Hawaii news concering the misused funds and say, "we Samoans, maybe that's the way we do things - we want our office built first before we go build the building outside." What a joke!! And stop saying "WE". Because "WE" didn't spend the funds, "WE" never seen the funds and "WE" are not "YOU"!! FBI, we support you on the hunt!!!

Malo People! wrote:

28 Oct 2009 11:06 PM

This is sooooooooo Shame and it was on television!!! Government reports also show some money paid for travel and entertainment charges in Las Vegas, flat screen TVs and expensive leather chairs. American Samoa's governor said there was a disaster study, but no plan for a warning system. How can it be a disaster study with no plan of warning system??? So how the people will know there's something coming??? "I was trying to get verification of what happened to that application, but I wasn't able to get the definite information," Gov. Togioloa Tulafono said. Bullshit!!! The money was there for what it's there for, and that's to build a tsunami warning system, to save lives. What I understand the FBI is heading this investigation and i'm sure they'll get to the bottom of it whether guilty or not improprieties or not they'll find out. Like I mention on my other comments to other article, I'm so happy that we have the FBI here. They will find it because it's a Federal money, and was here for a reason and we should used it like we was requested for. My understanding during my own research that Federal negotiators want the American Samoa government to pay back misused funds before unfreezing the money. But lucky they release some for now because of the Tsunami. But don't be impress because FBI are not stupid, they will be back for it... lol..... And thats the way I love it, so don't be surprise when the BIG GUNS knock on ur doors... lol..... Aloha!

Manu'a wrote:	28 Oct 2009 11:02 PM
Shame, Shame on ASG. The world now knows. 2 billion dallors and we ain't got nothing to show for it. Togiola couldn't even lie his way out on this one. Its just a shame. U.S. tax payers are really pissed off.

Manu'a wrote:	28 Oct 2009 10:35 PM
All the more reason why ASG should be sued by those who lost their loved ones. They should be made to pay compensation. Like always they will get away with murder. The evidence is there.

will fale wrote:	28 Oct 2009 09:28 PM
YOU VOTED FOR THEM CROOKS PEOPLE, NOW YOU GET WHAT YOU ASKED FOR! GOD'S WRATH IS NOW COMING DOWN ON THOSE WHO DESERVE IT! I'M SO ASHAMED ABOUT WHAT THESE EVIL MEN DID IN SHAMING OUR BELOVED SAMOA! MY HEART GOES OUT FOR THOSE WHO DIDN'T VOTE FOR THOSE CORRUPTED OFICIALS!

Concern citizen of Samoa wrote:

28 Oct 2009 09:25 PM

We have a favorite saying in our culture, 'E le tutupu fua mea fa'apena.' Now that we know about the 2 billion dollars, I wonder whether the people who's pockets were filled with that money, sleep better at night knowing that the lives of our loved ones whom we have lost is a direct result of their GREED and DECEITFULNESS. All the money that America pours into our little country to help us out and we have zero to show for it. Well, I for one won't be surprised if the Feds show up again and drag them to prison where they truly belong.

Anonymous wrote:

28 Oct 2009 09:09 PM

To those of you family members who lost a loved one, it is NOW your turn to file a lawsuit against the Government of American Samoa for failing to protect your loved ones. There are attorneys off island eager to assist and represent you. The Government was given the funds - Federal Funds to install an emergency alarm system, however, they became greedy and decided to misuse the funds, in layman terms, they deliberately took the money and spent it on extravagant trips, out of control spending on materialist things (plasma tv's, leather couch, SUVs and the list goes on and on). Have you seen the vehicles they're driving??? It was at the expense of the US tax payers money. Gov Togiola, you have tainted our image as Samoans in the eyes of the world and the US. Why are you not out there helping the people picking up debris, assist w/ the clean up, etc. You owe it to the people since they put you in office and you are actually their servant NOT just the governor. I'm not too sure if the people will ever forget and forgive you as their leader who failed them because of your greed, idiotic decisions and dishonesty. Do not just sit there and try to pretend that you care - you need to get yourself out there and get your hands dirty instead of hiring those temporary workers to cover your tracks of filth and corruption. You caused this disaster and you owe it to all the Samoan people because you failed to protect them. You failed to do what was right for the island when the Federal Funds were allocated. Since the FBI is now involved w/ an extensive investigation, the remainder of the funds were frozen. As a matter of fact, your response during a recent interview w/ CNN (C360) was - "Well, I have not had a chance to review the application, however..." - you make absolutely no sense at all and to even make another statement "We're not crooked people..." - Let me make a correcton to your statement and do not use the word "We" you should have referred to yourself by stating "I am a crooked person..." oh, "I am not a crooked but yes I am a crooked person". Do not get the people involved with your corrupted administration. Why do you still have a Lt Gov who is under so much scrutiny and recently resigned from his GAR post - why did you not have him resign from his position as the Lt Governor??? Oh, I forgot, you're as much as guilty as he is and your time of judgement is coming, it's just a matter of time. Therefore, you ought to do yourself a favor by looking in the mirror and ask yourself these questions - How can I take ownership of my own actions?? How can I face the people I failed to protect from the tsunami without providing them w/ the funds allocaed for the emergency alarm system? How can I continue as governor and yet FBI is right out my door?? Call me when you have the answer or before you get a knock on the door by Mr. FBI.

Teacher wrote:	28 Oct 2009 08:18 PM
FBI, please try investigating our local DOE. I wouldn't be surprise with any finding but the public will. Please begin with the Special Education Department.

mafaufau alofa wrote:	28 Oct 2009 08:03 PM
all i can say is oh wow!that is a whole lot of money.vaai afu o nai tagata faigaluega.ia manuia lava le aso i si o tatou atunuu...soifua ma ia manuia!

Puipuipo wrote:	28 Oct 2009 07:48 PM
I hope this will serve as a way to motivate our aspiring leaders to walk in the path of righteousness and do what is right for the community as a whole. I hope this article will give light to our young people so that they will not mirror the wrong doings of our current leaders but to strive to learn the true meaning of integrity and selfless service. A proud Samoan lives by these morals.

Anonymous wrote:	28 Oct 2009 07:15 PM
It seems to me that the Voting people of American Samoa had the chance to get rid of this Governor last November. When are the people going to stand up and say that we have had enough! How many disasters have to happen in order for change to take place in the Islands?

Anonymous wrote:	28 Oct 2009 07:06 PM
WHAT IS THAT MEAN YOU SEND $2 BILLION WITH NO FEDERAL OVERSIGHT WELL I DON'T THINK SO THE REASON WHY BECAUSE IS AND ACCIDENT OUR PEOPLE IN SAMOA NEVER KNOW WHAT GOD PLAN AND I FEEL SORRY FOR MY PEOPLE IN SAMOA THE ONLY THING YOU DO BOW DOWN ON YOUR KNEE AND PRAY WE LOVE YOU SAMOA PEOPLE GOD BLESS YOU ALL

Anonymous wrote:	28 Oct 2009 07:06 PM
WHAT IS THAT MEAN YOU SEND $2 BILLION WITH NO FEDERAL OVERSIGHT WELL I DON'T THINK SO THE REASON WHY BECAUSE IS AND ACCIDENT OUR PEOPLE IN SAMOA NEVER KNOW WHAT GOD PLAN AND I FEEL SORRY FOR MY PEOPLE IN SAMOA THE ONLY THING YOU DO BOW DOWN ON YOUR KNEE AND PRAY WE LOVE YOU SAMOA PEOPLE GOD BLESS YOU ALL

Alataua Lua wrote:	28 Oct 2009 06:22 PM
This governor and his government should be sued by the families that lost there loved-ones for misusing the funds (from taxpayers) that was intended to save lives. This corruption has been going on for too long now and it's about time for the fed's to step in prosecute these useless people.......soifua

Anonymous wrote:	28 Oct 2009 05:45 PM
Wow! 2 Billion...with the capital B!! And yet not much has changed in our island...I rather live in Western Samoa. I hope they catch them all before they pass away like Tauese! R.I.P to the Victims...much alofa's

Alataua Lua wrote:

28 Oct 2009 05:24 PM

Just absolute corruption!!! This is a crime and it should be punishable at least 20yrs in confinement. The misuse of all that fund that should've been invested into something very valuable like an alarm system, to save lives? But, the governor is more eager to settle a plan about a silly cannery? My goodness, where's this governor's priorities? I agree, the 2billion should've been closely monitored and oversighted by the fed's but, i guess the congress gave the government of Samoa the benefit of the doubt since they always call themselves "people of "God". It's a shame. The governor and the government of Samoa should've still been honest with all that money and use it wisely for this purpose for the sake of caring for the people. It shows how careless, dishonest, and untrustworthy they are. Maybe it was a terrible mistake electing a "Samoan" for a governor. But the question is, if a foreigner is elected from the states to substitute a "Samoan governor" will we be limited to our customs and lands? I'm 100% Samoan and i'm all for the "fa'a Samoa" (even though our peoples abuse that) and i don't wanna be limited to my culture and my land. But despite of all that, "HOMELAND SECURITY SHOULD'VE BEEN IN THE WORKS LONG TIME AGO". The community should be very mad at this governor and his "fono" for this corruption!!!!!!!!!! Soifua.

Alataua Lua wrote:

28 Oct 2009 04:01 PM

Thnx to cnn investigation it shed some light on this corruption. I hope to God our governor an his political officials get embezzlement charges for all that. We've already had a warning a couple years ago but our government refused to do anything about it but instead used up all that u.s tax dollar money for personal use. That's a damn shame... It won't be long before the feds steps in and take over the government of Samoa and a governor will be elected from the states (and he won't be Samoan).

I STILL LOVE AMERICAN SAMOA wrote:

28 Oct 2009 03:07 PM

I THINK THAT THERE IS SOME, NOT ALOT, BUT SOME EXAGGERATION IN THE REPORT. THERE IS REAL THEFT, AND MISUSE GOING IN OUR GOVERNMENT, AND THE TIME TO CRY ABOUT IT IS LONG GONE. WE HAD OUR CHANCE FOR REFORM AND ACCOUNTABILITY WHEN TAUESE DIED. WE SHOULD HAVE CONSIDERED THAT A CLEAN SLATE.(WITH ALL DUE RESPECT TO THE SUNIAS FAMILY), BUT WE ARE NOT BABIES ANYMORE, LETS START THROWING PEOPLE IN JAIL IN LARGE QUANTITIES AND WITH SWIFT JUDGEMENTS, STARTING FROM THE GOVERNOR AND ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE JANITORS OF THE E.O.B....

to no federal overisght wrote:	28 Oct 2009 03:01 PM
LET ME GUESS.. YOU WORK FOR THE GOVERNMENT A EA.. JUST A GUESS.NO FEDERAL OVERSIGHT..THAT IS NO EXCUSE FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO PLAY WITH OUR MONEY..

Anonymous wrote:	28 Oct 2009 02:59 PM
Im not surprise of the information that has come about. People in our goverment are all crooks!!! We recieve alot of money from the US but yet we have nothing to show for it!! All our leaders HAVE YOU NO SHAME??? We could have prevented this but no......i hope that our people can just see that a SAMOAN GOVERNOR cant do the job!!!

Anonymous wrote:	28 Oct 2009 02:47 PM
okay why is everyone pointing fingers. I believe its the Governors fault for people there and putting his trust in them. We need Abe Malae to be office so that way we would have a better goverment.

Vaieli wrote:

28 Oct 2009 02:08 PM

Watching CNN and also local news really bring sadness to us here living away from home. As a Military Veteran I noticed this decease spread into leaders that run our Government for a long time. Headline in every TV Stations all over the World stated American Samoa misused of Federal Funding( tax dollars ), Faipules stand up for the people that put you there, as a leader in the Military we were teach to be loyalty and honesty, that is a must and guidelines. Speaking on other issues talofa i Tama ma Tina matutua, nai tagata o Amerika Samoa o lo'o fia maua manuia o lo'o outou maua. Alofa le Atua mo Amerika Samoa.

SAMOANS ARE NOT BAD wrote:

28 Oct 2009 02:01 PM

Ask me if I stand beside corruption? Nope! I can say that I am ashamed of what has been broadcasted worldwide about our little island. And since the tsunami, I have heard a lot of comments about Samoans. You know, it's decisions made by one Samoan that affects the entire culture and race. But you know what, no matter what we do - there's a leak everywhere. Am I for corruption? HELL NO! But is there corruption everywhere? HELL YEAH! No matter what government, whether it be the U.S., the Japanese, whatever it may be, there is corruption. All we need to do is collect ourselves and pray for our leaders that someday, they'd wake up and start doing the right thing. I, as a Samoan, am offended at everything that is going on, especially while FEMA is here and to have this kind of SHOWCASE. OMG! It's a shame that WE, as Samoans, have to be put on blast like this, when it was probably just a handful of Samoans who did the act... Just a note for all other races, Samoans are not corrupt people.. Corruption is an individual attitude that every human being has, whether you are Samoan or White... So please, let's talk only about those who has been caught red handed instead of being so general - cause I am Samoan and not all Samoans are bad!!!!

LOVI'N THE KULUKUS wrote:	28 Oct 2009 01:53 PM
Hey, we voted 'em in, we MUST LOVE THIS BEHAVIOR as we just keep re-electing kulukus! When will we EVER LEARN??????

Anonymous wrote:

28 Oct 2009 01:50 PM

So, Governor Togiola thinks earthquake/tsunami will never come to AS. Instead the Governor and his cronies used that money meant for sirens and warnings on other things. Governor, you really looked terrible on your interview with CNN. Now people here in USA and other countries who donated, have no more sympathy, because of you. To save AS from embarrassment and headache, please do us a favor, "QUIT". Fono, please do not approve that Samoa Packing purchase. Nothing good is coming out of this administration. Someone from the Governor's office should read the comment side on each story related to the Governor, and tell him what people think about certain proposal that he's pushing. $200K proposal, too many people complained, but he went ahead and did it. It's time to impeach him, too much corruption in the ASG. Enough is enough.

Tama Samoa Moni wrote:

28 Oct 2009 01:50 PM

This the epitome of embarrassment, and the whole wide world is reading about this report and probably saying, "what the h?ll is that island doing with all of these funds" send to assist with programs of all sorts. It is utterly ridiculous and an insulting one for all American Samoans across the territory and its citizens, and now the world especially the US taxpayers are going to say, cut the budget, send less money, have people stationed in Am. Samoa to see that all monies are spend accordingly. Wow, I am at a loss for words to describe this stinging report. And it says the feds are already on it, and that's even more scary. Someone will pay big time for this boo boo of the highest level. Can't wait to read comments from my friends across the globe, they will probably hammer me and our local leadership.

Anonymous wrote:	28 Oct 2009 01:33 PM
I saw this segment on CNN here in california and I was disgusted and embarrassed- People died needless. This administration will go down in history as the administration that sacrificed peoples lives so they can have their $4000 dollar office chairs,expensive plazma tv's and suv's. Such a shame...My heart crys out for my beloved Samoa.

ASSCC student wrote:

28 Oct 2009 01:30 PM

2 billion dollars??? oh my gosh what in the world is happening to the govenment of American Samoa...it's a shock to read and very dissappointed...Alot of money have been sending by the federal to help our local government but use it in useless equipment. people die because of no siren warning but the money has been sent the past 2 years? who's fault is that??? don't do whatever you want with the sent for the government, it's not your money it's the government's money.. fired them all!!!!

Purple Heart Recipient "Noble Cause" Vietnam War> wrote:

28 Oct 2009 07:02 AM

I most certainly agree to have the department of Interior appointed a governor for Aerican Samoa. There is "NO" way a samoan governor can helm the seat as governor, due to fa'asamoa corrupted culture is a number one reason. Also I do believe the guys are called leaders for the gtovernment as a whole called themselves educator, I don't think so. I think they were college attendee, and not college graduate....Conspicuous understand by their performance according to their Executive Branch is concern. I am sincere a samoan governor isn't a wise decision made by the Department of Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Congress. Lets go back to were we started from before 1977. It will be a best interest for all, and the funds are sending to the government for expendicture are wasted on filched activity only. It is the most stressful situation to people like myself, and several others who cares about the government and people's welbeing of how these funds has been spent accordingly. A big time wasted.

NO Siren, SO People Died wrote:	28 Oct 2009 06:26 AM
Facts and more Facts-- thanks Togiola, really killer job you got!

NO Federal Oversight wrote:	28 Oct 2009 05:21 AM
What do you mean you sent $2 billion dollars with no Federal Oversight? Hey Congress of America-- who's fault is that? Who have a whole division at OIA unattended-- an absent landlord is what took place, of course the mice plays when the cats not around-- its only human, I mean micey!

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