Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — One of the governor’s nominees for membership on the Board of Directors of the Development Bank of American Samoa (DBAS) who was rejected by the Senate in November last year, was yesterday unanimously confirmed.

Yesterday morning before the Senate’s regular session, Eseneiaso Liu appeared for the second time before the Senate Rules Committee for her confirmation hearing.

When the hearing convened, an emotional Chairman Magalei Logovi’i stated that the witness needed no introduction, as they were all aware of her many years of service to the people and government of American Samoa.

He also pointed out that she was a constituent of his district and after the Senate’s first rejection of her nomination, he has found himself in an uncomfortable and awkward position especially since he was the chairman of the committee.

With his voice breaking, Magalei assured Senate members that he would always support any senator who solicited his vote to confirm a relative or constituent who has been accused of alleged misconduct and he appealed for support of Liu’s nomination.

Senator Muagututiti’a M. Tauoa spoke in support of Magalei’s appeal and reminded senators of Liu’s impressive record of service which spanned more than 50 years.

“You were not appointed by the governor,” Muagututiti’a told Liu. “Your appointment is from God. God whispered to Governor Lemanu and told him to appoint you because you have talents that He gave you that will benefit our people.”

He then urged Senate members to approve her nomination.

Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean addressed the witnessed and told her that in the many years he has served at the Fono, this is the first time he has witnessed Senator Magalei overcome with emotion that he has shed tears.

“That is sign of a father who truly loves his children, his constituents and country,” Tuaolo said. “If you are confirmed, serve with compassion. Remember DBAS is there for the benefit of our people. Considering the plight of the low income families when they apply for loans to improve their homes and quality of life.”

In his letter to Senate President Tuaolo, dated February 1, 2024, resubmitting Eseneiaso Liu’s name, Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga stated in part that , “Ms. Liu is a retired public servant with more than 50 years of service to the American Samoa Government.

“Her public service started in 1968 where she worked in the Department of Legal Affairs and Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division.

“From there, she had the opportunity to join the Department of Human Resources where she served many positions over the years slowly making her way to the Director position before her retirement in 2020. It is this experience and capability that will make her a great asset to this board.”

Last November, Eseneiaso Liu did not garner enough votes to be confirmed. As it turned out, seven senators voted yes, while three voted no. Ten votes were needed to confirm her.

However, there was a change of heart in the Senate yesterday and she was unanimously confirmed in a 13-0 vote.

Ms. Liu will fill the unexpired term of Vaiausia Yandall, which ends March 31, 2024.