Senator Galea’i Advises Governor’s Reps to Seek AG’s Opinion

galeai-and-uti

Manu’a Senator Galea’i Moaali’itele Tu’ufuli has been very quiet at the Fono’s joint budget hearings and has hardly said anything.

But that changed this morning.

The Manu’a Senator didn’t ask any questions for most of the government agencies who had their hearings today including Administrative Services, Office of the Administrative Law Judge, Department of Commerce, KVZK-TV and Territorial Administration on Aging Office.

But when it was time to review the Special Programs budget which is overseen by the Governor’s Office, Galea’i’s voice was heard.

Chief of Staff Fiu J Saelua and Director of Special Programs, Jerome Ielome were the witnesses.

Senator Galea’i zeroed in on the $1 million being proposed for political payouts asking the Govermor;s Office reps who will be paid with this money.

Chief of Staff Fiu Johnny Saelua said the payouts are for all those who have been appointed to work under the current administration including the Directors, those who are working at the Governor’s office and some Deputy Directors on contract.

Asked if this includes the Governor and Lt. Governor? Galea’i Fiu responded yes.

Galea’i pointed out that the governor and lt governor were not appointees of the government but rather were elected by the people.

Galea’i said that he does support the payouts but asked the Chief of Staff to consult the Attorney General to make sure that this move is not violating the law.

He pointed out that the Governor and the Lt. Governor’s benefits are set by law and their statutory compensation is all they should be getting.

Referring to the payouts during the Togiola and Faoa administration, Galeai said not only were  the payouts given to cabinet members but the former governor and lt . governor as well, which he said was a violation of the law.

“It’s okay to do it but do make sure it is compliant with the law,” Galea’i advised Chief of staff and lawmakers.

The Manu’a senator recommended that the administration seek advice from the attorney general because he does not want them to be taken by surprise if someone takes legal action against the payouts and this would not be a positive reflection on the administration.

He cautioned that such a case could possibly result in a bill seeking appropriation to cover the political payouts.

Galea’i said all he wants is to make the people understand and ensure that the right thing is being done.

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