There is strong criticism in American Samoa of a decision by the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council to allow longliners to fish in waters now reserved for small boats or alia.
Longliners to get into more American Samoan waters Photo: AFP
Senator Mauga Tasi Asuega says the Council action has brought back the words of the last King of Manu'a, Tuimanu'a Elisara, who feared a time would come when America would rule his people harshly, rule without dignity, and without respect.
Mauga says the US president declared a reserve covering a large area of ocean in the Pacific without any attempt to ask the people affected for their input.
Mauga says the treatment smacks of colonialism and it should be resisted.
Another Senator, Galea'i Tu'ufuli, says American Samoa can take its case to the United Nations because the US doesn't hold absolute power over the territory.
He says every year, the UN asks if American Samoa wants to remain under the US and the territory's answer has always been favourable.
