2 Mar 2007

Samoa Tourism Authority sacks CEO after Ombudsman's report on sexual harassment

10:56 am on 2 March 2007

Samoa's tourism authority board has terminated the suspended chief executive officer, Matafeo Reupena Matafeo's, contract in a decision endorsed by the cabinet yesterday.

Matafeo was re-appointed last year for a second three year term in the position.

The board's decision follows an investigation by the Ombudsman over allegations of sexual harassment against the tourism boss.

Matafeo's former secretary, Lu'isa Fuimaono, had lodged a complaint to the minister of tourism, Misa Telefoni, and the board, which was later referred to the Ombudsman office for an investigation.

The report has revealed unwanted sexual advances and abuse of power by the suspended CEO against the complainant.

The Ombudsman, Maiava Iulai Toma, in his report has recommended that the authority urgently consider putting in place a policy on sexual harassment and procedures to handle complaints that may arise.

Meanwhile, the CEO said earlier this week he's considering taking legal action against the Ombudsman' s findings.