The Co-Chairmen of the Committee for the new Fono building have denied reports circulating that part of the $1 million funding for the dedication of the new building will be given as monetary gifts to the Fono leaders, Senators, and Representatives.
Senator Olo Uluao Letuli and Rep. Vailoata Amituanai said that while there has been discussion about monetary gifts, the committee has not made a decision, so any suggestion that the lawmakers will receive envelopes of cash are not true.
KHJ News also asked Senate President Pro Tem Magalei Logovii about the monetary gifts. He confirmed that there has been discussion in the committee about giving cash gifts to all Fono members in celebration of the completion of the new Fono building. He said there will be another meeting Friday to make a final decision on the gifts.
According to Magalei, the Senate feels that the amounts being suggested from the House side are too high, but he did not disclose the amounts.
Senator Olo and Rep. Vailoata said three off-island guests being invited to the dedication of the new Maota Fono are Samoa’s Head of State, the Prime Minister, and Speaker of Parliament.
The dedication will take place November 28.
