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For Immediate Release April 23, 2001
April
23, 2001
Hon. Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi
Prime Minister
Prime Minister’s Office
Government of Samoa
Apia, Samoa
It is with great sorrow that the government and people of American Samoa extend their deepest sympathies to Ida and the Vaai family at the passing away of a father and a leader of the Independent State of Samoa, the Most Honorable Vaai Kolone.
A respected leader of the Samoan people throughout the world, the Honorable Vaai Kolone’s agrarian background, humble demeanor and adherence to strong work ethics were the foundations of his abilities to successfully provide stewardship during times of political turmoil. A man who so willingly gave of himself when called upon by the people, he embodied the term leadership by example and demonstrated that Samoans could live a proud existence and prosper from the land. In the years following Samoa’s independence, his life was a beacon for the country, an anchor for economic stability and a dream pursued by many in the rural community. The legacy of the Honorable Vaai Kolone will be the standards he established by which Samoans will select future leaders for many years to come.
On behalf of the government and people
of American Samoa, I extend our deepest sympathies to Ida and the Vaai family
for a loss that is shared by Samoans around the world. May he rest peacefully in
God’s loving hands.
TOGIOLA T.A. TULAFONO
Acting Governor