A member of the Hospital Authority Board who has been removed by the Governor, Afamasaga Dr Talifa Talifa Jr., has denied the causes for his removal that were stated by the Governor’s Chief Legal Counsel, Barry Bfundt.

Responding to KHJ News questions, Dr Talifa said he’s aware of a letter “purportedly issued” by the Governor’s Legal Counsel that was recently circulated publicly.

“While I cannot confirm how that internal correspondence was obtained, I must state unequivocally that I deny all allegations contained therein,” he reacted.

Dr Talifa, a retired dentist, declares, “At no time have I engaged in any conduct that would warrant removal for cause, and to date, no formal evidence, report, or documentation has been provided to substantiate any of the claims listed.”

The Governor’s Chief Legal Counsel Bfundt in an October 15 letter to Dr Talifa cited as causes for his removal from the board: deficiencies identified by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services specific to the Governing Board of the American Samoa Medical Center Authority, receiving payment of sums for Board participation exceeding the statutory limit and interference with hiring practices and interference with procurements executed by appropriate hospital officials and staff.

Dr Talifa told KHJ News, “As a public servant, I have always conducted myself in good faith, with transparency and in the best interests of the people of American Samoa and the staff and patients of the LBJ Tropical Medical Center. My record reflects accountability and service, not interference or misconduct.”

He said he’s in the process of retaining an attorney “to ensure his due process rights are fully respected and to address any procedural or factual inaccuracies in the Governor’s action.”

“Until the matter is resolved lawfully and transparently, I will refrain from engaging in speculation or personal commentary out of respect for the institutions involved.”

Dr Talifa stated, “My sole objective is to protect the integrity of the LBJ Board of Directors, the hospital, and the reputation I have built through years of service to our community. I trust that truth and fairness will prevail through the proper legal channels.”