The vote is what “democracy” is all about, Gov Lemanu says

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The election results and referendum on the proposed amendments to American Samoa’s Constitution is what “democracy” is all about says Governor Lemanu P. S Mauga.

He made the comments on the mid term election results during the Sunset Service celebrating Veterans Day last week.

This past week voters rejected an amendment that would have given the Governor powers to appoint the Chief Justice and Associate Justices — subject of Fono approval.

The voters through their ballots allowed the Secretary of Interior’s authority to remain intact for veto power over judicial and legislative decisions.

Lemanu said the voters have chosen members of the respective representative in the House and spoke about the proposed Constitutional amendments.

“This is what democracy is all about, ” he said.

Samoa News reached out to the Executive Director of the Constitutional Convention Office, Tapa’au Dr Dan Aga for comments on the outcome, but he declined, citing that “the first statement may have to come from Governor Lemanu.”

However previous comments from Tapa’au outlined that amending American Samoa’s Constitution will not change American Samoa’s political status. “The Referendum will not change our political status as a US territory.  “The sons and daughters of American Samoa have made great sacrifices too great to support and defend our relationship with the US. 

“Amending the Constitution is not an attempt to change this extremely important part of our lives although there is a question on the form of our political status as a US territory (i.e. ‘organic act’).”

He said the Constitution belongs to all of the people of Tutuila, Aunuu, Manu’a and Swains Island. 

“No matter if you are old or young, rich or poor, male or female, or whether you hold a matai title or not.  Except for rights defined by law such as the right to vote, Constitutional rights are for all people residing in American Samoa. “The Constitution cannot fix our roads.  It cannot pay your electric or water bills.  It cannot heal the sick.  Why then does it matter?

“The Constitution matters because it sets out our rights and responsibilities.  “It has a unique section for protecting Samoan lands, culture, and language. “ It sets up the three branches of our local government.  A good constitution holds government accountable.”

Adding that if the conditions in American Samoa change, the Constitution needs to adapt to those changes. 

“Only your vote can decide which Constitutional changes are needed or ought to be made. You have the freedom to choose.”