3 May 2018

Campaign planned in American Samoa over veto rule change

12:47 pm on 3 May 2018

A proposed change to American Samoa's veto rules has been defeated so far because of a lack of understanding, according to the territory's governor.

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Photo: 123rf

A territory-wide education campaign is being planned to explain the amendment which will be on the ballot in the general elections in November.

At present the Secretary of the Interior has the final say if the Fono repasses a bill vetoed by the governor.

But the Fono has completed the second round of approvals for an amendment which would leave the power with the legislature, if there's a two thirds majority in both chambers.

Governor Lolo Moliga said he believes lack of understanding about the veto override amendment was the reason why the change was not approved in previous elections.

The Secretary of Samoan Affairs Mauga Tasi Asuega has briefed the cabinet about a public awareness campaign which will include presentations in villages, churches, and schools to fully explain the issue.