Governor Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula released the following statement Friday on the passing of former Governor Lolo Letalu Matalasi Moliga.
“It is with the deepest sorrow that I, on behalf of the American Samoa Government and the people of our Territory, extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of our former Governor, the Honorable Lolo Letalu Matalasi Moliga.
“We mourn together the loss of a devoted leader, husband, father, grandfather, matai, educator, and public servant who dedicated his life in service to our people.
“Governor Moliga’s journey from the classrooms and school offices to the highest office in the Territory is a story of humility, faith, and unwavering commitment to the fa’a Samoa.
As a teacher, principal, legislator, and later as Governor, he worked tirelessly to uplift our communities, strengthen education, and preserve the resources of our islands with care and responsibility. His calm, steady leadership guided American Samoa through times of challenge and change, always with the well-being of our people at heart.
”In this time of grief, we give thanks for his many years of service and for the legacy he leaves behind in the institutions he helped build and the many lives he touched. May his example of integrity, service, and faith inspire future generations of leaders in American Samoa. To the Moliga family, please know that the prayers of our entire Territory are with you. We ask our gracious God to surround you with comfort and peace, and to grant you strength in the days ahead.
“May you find solace in cherished memories of his love, guidance, and wisdom and in the knowledge that his contribution to our islands will never be forgotten. In honor of his life and service, the American Samoa Government will join the family and the community in paying fitting tribute to Governor Moliga. We stand with you in mourning, and we stand with you in hope, trusting that he now rests in the eternal embrace of our Heavenly Father.”
The Governor also issued a memo Friday ordering that the flags of the United States of America and American Samoa be flown at half-staff immediately in honor of the late Honorable Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga.
