Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On June 18, 2025, “the Office of the Governor issued this statement to provide clarity and reaffirm its commitment to transparent governance regarding Mr. Enele Lefano’s role as Director of the ASG Manu‘a Office,” according to media release PR001-06182025.

The statement is reportedly in response to Mr. Lefano being terminated by the COS, and then re-hired by the Lt. Governor, while the Governor was off-island. The incident is not explained in the press release, other than as a “procedural oversight” that led to “to unintended confusion and distress for Mr. Lefano and Lt. Governor Pulu”.

It is a follows:

As a unified entity, Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula and Lt. Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. are dedicated to serving American Samoa with integrity, guided by our shared Christian and cultural values of respect, dignity, faasamoa and aiga, which bind our close-knit community.

Under Article IV, Section 4 of the Constitution of American Samoa, the Governor is vested with executive authority to appoint and remove officials, encompassing roles such as the Director of the Manu‘a Office. Article IV, Section 7 permits the Governor to delegate such authority at their discretion, a common practice.

Governor Pula delegated administrative oversight of this matter to Chief of Staff (COS) Leonard Seumanutafa, whose role includes advising the Governor and managing office operations (National Governor’s Association). As noted in Article IV, Section 12, the Lt. Governor assumes certain responsibilities in the Governor’s absence.

However, during Lt. Governor Pulu’s temporary unavailability due to travel and health matters, certain staff members inadvertently deviated from established protocols. This resulted in the issuance of correspondence and advice without comprehensive counsel, leading to unintended confusion and distress for Mr. Lefano and Lt. Governor Pulu.

The Governor’s Office deeply regrets this procedural oversight and extends sincere apologies to Mr. Lefano and the public for any resultant uncertainty.

Personnel decisions, such as terminations, are made with careful consideration, as they impact individuals and their families. Out of respect for Mr. Lefano’s privacy, specific personnel details will remain confidential.

Governor Pula, alongside Lt. Governor Pulu and Chief of Staff Seumanutafa, is implementing enhanced coordination measures, including a review of internal protocols to ensure such lapses are not repeated. These steps reflect the administration’s unwavering commitment to fact-based accountability and sound governance.

We urge our community to prioritize unity and mindfulness, especially on social media where words can divide rather than unite our aiga.

Governor Pula and Lt. Governor Pulu remain resolute in their united mission to serve the people of American Samoa.

The administration is dedicated to fostering trust and delivering effective governance through the vital work of the Manu‘a Office.

The Governor’s Office appreciates the public’s understanding and pledges to uphold the highest standards of transparency and service moving forward.