Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — It was an emotional moment for Senators, yesterday when they observed a moment of silence in honor of Paramount Chief, Tualatai Senator Satele Galu Satele who passed away on Wednesday, on island.

Senators paid tribute to their colleague, Paramount Chief, Tualatai Senator Satele Galu Satele who passed away on Wednesday. The session started with a moment of silence to honor Satele’s service [Photo: JF]

He was 80 years old.

Satele, the former Secretary of Samoa Affairs and former District Governor served as the Chair of the Senate’s Health and Hospital Committee.

During the session yesterday, Senator Tuiagamoa Tavai used the opportunity to express his condolences to the grieving family and the Tualatai constituency for the passing of one of its pillars in the District.

During the moment of silence, Senate President, Tuaolo Manaia Fruean was seen fighting his emotions. In 2008 Satele won his Paramount Chief title in court and had his title bestowment in 2009, after a lengthy trial. The title had been vacant for more than two decades.

Senator Satele recently was vocal against the spending of COVID-19 funds on offices for Fono leaders and members and stated it should be used to prepare our hospital for when we have a case of coronavirus in the territory.

Adding that there are a lot of other more pressing needs than offices for the Fono, such as school buildings and supplies.

Satele is survived by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.