American Samoa's Governor has used his 2009 Flag Day address to stress what he calls an urgent need to review the territory's constitution.
Togiola Tulafono said while the government is preoccupied with economic development and responding to social challenges, it must also tend to the foundation of its political status.
He said a constitutional review should address whether American Samoa should continue to be a territory of the United States or fashion a new status:
"Time and again the US Congress has indicated its willingness to prepare and consider with us a permanent status whenever we are ready. I think that time is here and that time is now. Indecisiveness can only lead to confusion and insecurity. This is no time to procrastinate any more."
Togiola Tulafono announced that a constitutional convention would be convened in November.
He also said the public must be educated to ensure that American Samoans are well versed with whatever changes will be proposed.
