Senators and faipule sworn in and a number of acting directors appointed

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Members of the 39th Legislature of American Samoa were sworn in last Friday in their respective chambers, coinciding with the inauguration ceremony of Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula and Lt. Governor Pulu Ae Ae, Jr. at Malaeoletalu in Fagatogo.

In the Senate, Tuaolo Manaia Fruean was unanimously re-elected for his second consecutive term as president. Tuaolo, the sole nominee, was nominated by Senator Togiola T.A. Tulafono and seconded by former president Senator Gaoteote Palaie Tofau.

The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by Associate Judge Fiti Sunia, was attended by 17 of the 18 senators selected by their respective districts. Senator Alo Paul Stevenson, who is off-island for medical reasons, participated via Zoom.

Motusaga Peleti was re-elected as Secretary of the Senate, while Vaesau Faavae Papatu was elected as the new Senate Sergeant at Arms.

In the House of Representatives, Savali Talavou Ale was the sole nominee for Speaker and was unanimously re-elected for another term. This marks his ninth term as Speaker of the House of Representatives. First elected in 1981, he is the longest-serving current member of the American Samoa Legislature.

With the exception of Representative Tapai Alailepule Benjamin Vaivao, who was absent due to being off-island, the assembly was in full attendance.

Clerk of the House Vaiaitu Mulinuu Filo Maluia was re-elected, while Vaifoa Taveuveu was elected Sergeant at Arms.

The oaths of office were administered by Chief Associate Judge Mamea Sala Jr.

Meanwhile, the following acting directors have been appointed:

• Tause Sagapolutele as Acting Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety;

• Chief Joseph Faaita as Acting Director of the Department of Search and Rescue;

• Arrianna Princess Auva'a as Acting Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs;

• Faraitoafa M. Utu as Acting Director of the Department of Public Health.