An American Samoa Representative, Galumalemana Bill Satele, says it's not for the governor to make decisions on his own about the territory joining the Pacific Islands Forum.
American Samoa has been seeking observer status at the Forum.
Galumalemana says this is something to be discussed with the fono and the public should have an input.
He says the governor has spoken of the territory wanting to stand on its own and be able to make its own decisions but this might give the US the idea that the territory wants to become independent.
He says there needs to a wider discussion about links with bodies such as the Forum.
