The Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) Board says a statement is forthcoming on its findings into the suspended tourism boss, Toleafoa Pativaine Petaia-Tevita. 

Acting Chairman for the STA Board, Tuiataga Nathan Bucknall, was reluctant to respond when contacted for a follow-up on their performance review of the suspended Chief Executive Officer. 

“I don’t have anything to say now, but shortly there will be comments in the statement,” he said.

Asked when the statement would be released, Tuiataga replied that once he approves. 

“Next week, just have to go through the due process,” he added. 

Toleafoa has been suspended for three months since late February and was given the right of response to matters raised by the STA Board. 

The former Chairperson for STA, Tauiliili Alise Stunnenberg, said the board was going through a standard procedure for all government employees under review. 

She said the suspension was issued due to the unsatisfactory performance of the STA boss, but did not elaborate on the matter. 

Toleafoa was appointed the CEO for STA in July 2022, and her tenure in office is for three years. 

After she was suspended in February, she was given one week to respond. It is also unclear if a response was given to the STA board.