Several Commonwealth Utilities Corp. personnel were asked this question by Variety after CUC Executive Director Abe Utu Malae announced his intention to run again for American Samoa governor next year.
A Republican, Malae lost to the Democratic incumbent, Togiola Tulafono, in the 2008 election.
“I am sure he can give 100 percent of his time to CUC. He’s a professional and even when he was still the deputy director he was committed in his work,” a CUC employee for more than 20 years said.
The employee, who refused to be identified, said Malae should continue working for CUC because “that’s what he is paid for.”
Another employee said the next executive director should “try to make a difference if not surpass the performance of the outgoing director.”
“Good luck to the incoming director because of the present situation in CNMI,” he added.
CUC human resource manager Frankie Cepeda said based on the federal stipulated orders, CUC must appoint a new executive director within 150 days from the date of vacancy.
A CUC employee for 14 years said Malae performed well as executive director.
“He is really strong in enforcing the rules which makes him a standout,” he said, adding that Malae can still work for CUC in the next few months.
But another employee said Malae’s attention is already divided between CUC and his gubernatorial candidacy.
Another employee said whoever replaced Malae should “do better and improve” the operation of CUC.
Other employees said they were surprised to learn about Malae’s political plans.
In June 2010, then CUC Executive Director Tony Muna resigned but continued to work until a qualified replacement was named by the governor.
Variety was told that the 150-day countdown for a replacement started immediately when Muna announced his resignation.
CUC could not say whether this rule will also apply to Muna.
Press Secretary Angel Demapan yesterday said Malae had not yet submitted a letter of resignation.
Asked if Malae has to be replaced within 150 days after resigning from CUC, Demapan said: “Yes, and as the time draws nearer to when Mr. Malae will officially tender his resignation, the administration will work with CUC to ensure that all requirements are met and that a proper transition is effectuated so as not to disrupt the services of CUC.
Malae was attending a meeting when sought for comment yesterday.
