Budget hearings for depts. with unconfirmed heads postponed

The budget hearings for the Public Defender’s Office and the Public Library have been postponed since the heads of these agencies have yet to undergo confirmation hearings. 

Last Friday, September 12, 2025, Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean articulated that individuals who have not been officially confirmed should not be permitted to testify regarding their respective budgets.

Fruean elaborated on this stance by citing relevant legal provisions, stating that all directors must undergo a confirmation process, irrespective of any existing contracts they might hold. He emphasized that while each director currently serves under a contractual agreement, the new administration mandates that the Fono confirm all directors. In essence, he pointed out that a binding contract cannot supersede established law.

"The law is crystal clear: a contract cannot override the law," Fruean emphasized, highlighting the importance of adhering to legal protocols.

Deputy Speaker of the House Fetu Fetui echoed Fruean’s concerns, stressing that as elected representatives, lawmakers must address and rectify such oversight.

“It is our responsibility to correct these mistakes. If we don’t take action, we are effectively condoning them,” he said, underscoring the weight of legislative accountability.

Fetu further noted that there are specific laws and established policies that must be upheld to maintain the integrity of government processes.

In light of these considerations, Chairman of the House Budget Committee Vailoata Amituana’i announced the postponement of the budget hearing, allowing time for further investigation into these matters to ensure compliance with legal and procedural standards.