The inquiry into the National University of Samoa's top management is complete and the findings will be presented before Cabinet next week.

The N.U.S. Vice Chancellor, Professor Fui Asofou So’o and Deputy Vice Chancellors, Peseta Dr. Desmond Lee Hang and Maugaoali’i Ufagalilo Mualia were placed on special leave in order for the inquiry to be conducted.

Speaking during his weekly press programme, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Dr. Sa'ilele Malielegaoi said the Inquiry report has been submitted to Cabinet for its deliberations next week.

“I can confirm the investigation is complete and we have received the report.” 

The internal investigation was initially approved by Cabinet in April and was to be carried out by a special committee recommended by the N.U.S. Council.

However, due to the unavailability of some selected members of the special committee, the investigation was referred to the Ombudsman’s Office “as a matter of urgency” early this month. 

The Prime Minister said the details of the report are confidential and not for publishing until it was discussed by the Cabinet. 

“Under Cabinet policies, I can’t reveal the findings until it is discussed before Cabinet. We can’t publicize something prior to Cabinet making a final decision on this matter. 

“This is very important for you (2AP) to know as well as the Samoa Observer reporter sitting on my left. She needs to think of the bigger picture and not be narrow-minded,” he said.

Ombudsman Maiava Iulai Toma had told this newspaper that the N.U.S. issue had been referred to the Ombudsman in line with Section 19 (3) of the Ombudsman Act 2013 for investigation and report as a matter of urgency.  

Under the Ombudsman Act 2013 Section 19, referral of matters by Parliamentary Committees or Prime Minister, Subsection (3) states, “without limiting section 18 and subsection (1), the Prime Minister may refer a matter to the Ombudsman (except a matter about a judicial proceeding) if the Ombudsman consents to such a referral for investigation and report”. 

According to Section 18 of the Act, the Ombudsman may on complaint or own initiative, investigate any administrative decision that affects a person in the person’s personal capacity made by any of the following; (a) Ministry or organisation or (b) an officer when carrying out a power of function conferred by an enactment.