$5,000 of taxpayer money was used as a donation for the saofai of a member of the Governor’s Office staff, last week.
A December 5 memo from Chief of Staff Loa Tuimavave Laupola to the Finance Division of the Governor’s Office reveals this.
The memo, which was leaked and made its way to Facebook states, “Please prepare a direct voucher payment of $5,000 for Paleafei Harry Pulou for a matai title bestowment held on December 7, 2023.
“Should you have any questions, please come see me.”
The supporting documentation shows that the money is from the Governor’s protocol account and has the signature of Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga.
KHJ News sent questions to the Governor’s Chief of Staff concerning the payment. We received a response early this morning.
“There are many times throughout the year that the Governor is called upon to take part in events both in American Samoa and throughout the world that require cultural protocol to be followed.
“Understanding the Governor’s role in protecting and preserving the fa’a Samoa and his need to comply with other cultural requirements as a representative of American Samoa, ASG regularly budgets protocol and contingency funds for such purposes. Whether these events are cultural ceremonies, welcoming visiting dignitaries, being gracious guests in other countries, or supporting other cultural celebrations, the Governor’s duty to support our culture and build goodwill with those of other cultures are accounted for and authorized under his budget appropriation.”
Paleafei previously worked in the ASG Office in Honolulu, but moved to the territory in 2021 and joined the Governor’s Office.
He was appointed, last Friday, as Director of the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs, a position that was previously held by Paepaetele Mapu Jamias, who resigned to run for the Manu’a House election in September.
The December 8 memo from Governor Lemanu appointing Paleafei to the position said, “I have full confidence in the abilities of Mr. Pulou to carry out the duties and responsibilities of this position, and I believe his service and experience will be a valuable contribution to the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs.”
