16 Sep 2004

American Samoan senate committee issues subpoenas to government officials

3:47 pm on 16 September 2004

The Senate Select Investigative Committee has issued subpoenas for American Samoa Government officials to appear for questioning next week.

The subpoenas come despite a statement by the Attorney-General Fiti Sunia, that the committee's authority ended on Monday with the final day of the Legislature.

However, the Committee says five subpoenas have been issued and if witnesses do not comply they will be taken to court for contempt.

The subpoenas relate to cases involving the alleged misuse of government property.

The Director and Deputy Director of Education and the Director of Parks have been summoned.

The acting President of the Development Bank and a former Representative have also been called upon to appear before the committee.