LOCAL GOVERNMENT
The American Sāmoa Constitution provides for a Department of Local Government, which is headed by the Secretary of Samoan Affairs. He or she, must be chosen among the "leading registered matai" of American Sāmoa and along with the District Governors, manage district, county, and village affairs and oversees ceremonial functions.
In this section, we interview the current Secretary of Samoan Affairs, Mauga Tasi Asuega, on his thoughts about the Faʻamatai in American Sāmoa, its unique role in the government and its importance for not only maintaining government affairs, but preserving Samoan land and culture.
Mauga Tasi Asuega
Mauga Tasi Asuega is the paramount chief of Pago Pago, the capital of American Sāmoa. He is also the current Secretary of Samoan Affairs. He will share his thoughts about the Faʻamatai in American Sāmoa, its unique role in the government and its importance for not only maintaining government affairs but preserving Samoan land and culture at the village level.
NOT FULLY AMERICAN
Does the U.S. Constitution Follow the Flag in American Sāmoa?