What are some problems with immigration in American Samoa and what improvements will you make to correct them?
That’s one of the questions at the ASCC Gubernatorial Forum last week.
Answering for the Lemanu Talauega Team, Lt Governor candidate Talauega Eleasalo Ale said there are many problems with immigration “which have existed from the time American Samoa first elected its own local governor which is a pretty long time span.”
He said American Samoans are part of the problem.
Play Audio
Talauega said because of COVID-19 the system has not been fully tested but he believes having such a tracking system , with the right people to work it, is key to ensuring our borders are secure.
This was the response from Candidate for Governor Nuanuaolefeagaiga Saoluaga Nua
Play Audio
The governor candidate said in Samoan the problems within immigration stem from the fact that the people we elect to enforce the law are not doing their job. He said many jobs and businesses are now occupied and owned by outsiders because immigration law is not being followed.
“The Fono is tired of passing laws but they are not being enforced. So many cases where a foreigner is brought in to work for a department or company but they come and start a business. So that’s the reason why there are so many problems we have with immigration now.
The team of I’aulualo and Tapaau both answered the question. Governor candidate I’aulualo Faafetai Talia said the big problem with immigration is the overstayers and this needs to be dealt with because it becomes a cost to the government.
Play Audio
