The outgoing governor in the Northern Mariana Islands, Juan Babauta, has given permanent positions to about 70 civil servants appointed during his tenure.
The Saipan Tribune newspaper says Mr Babauta has issued an order lifting an austerity measure that had prevented certain government appointees from becoming permanent government employees.
The move comes despite the incoming governor, Benigno Fitial, expressly asking Mr Babauta, last week, not to take any personnel actions that would commit the government beyond the incumbent's term.
Mr Fitial takes office on January the 6th..
