The Senate introduced during their regular session today a concurrent resolution conveying its condolences for the passing of Senator Lualemaga Etuati Tilotilo Faoa, paying tribute to his service to the people of American Samoa.
Lualemaga, who was Western District Governor when he died January 24th has served in all three branches of the American Samoa Government for more than a half a century.
Lualemaga was known publicly for speaking his mind without fear of repercussions and lived believing that, “should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and an act of disloyalty towards the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings.”
During the 2015 terrorist attack in Paris, he wrote a letter of condolences to French President Francois Hollande where he stated that, “after hearing of the evil attack upon your people and nation, I, HC Lualemaga E. Faoa, my people of A’asu village and the people of American Samoa are extremely saddened to hear and learn of such uncivilized acts towards your peaceful and loving people.”
His letter which was publicized in the region was channeled through the French Consul General in Samoa, Vaimasenuu Zika Martel whom Lualemaga knew from fautasi racing.
Yesterday Senator Tuaolo Fruean asked if the French president and government has been informed of Lualemagas passing, because he felt they should.
Governor Lolo’s statement in the resolution pointed out that HC Lualemaga was, “a true friend who is not afraid to publicly disagree with him on several governental issues.”
The son of the late Faoa Tilotilo and Fenunu’ivao Misaalefua of Ofu, Manu’a attended Poyer Junior School, graduated from Samoana High School then left the island for Oakland where he attendedPatten University majoring in Theology.
He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Theology.
HC Lualemaga was most prominent in his involvement with the Senate Select Investigation Committee (SSIC) which uncovered nuremous cases of corruption in government.
Funeral services for Lualemaga will be held next week.
