OHA was developed through the 1978 Constitutional  Convention under John  Waihee's leadership, and Dan Inouye's influence.  Today we have a history of OHA spending based upon federal recognition, the Akaka Bill  with related Washington lobbying efforts for said causes, and internal lawsuits between trustees.  These past relationships and endeavors continue to influence the collective Board and its legal counsel.  

When Ka Pouhana wrote a letter to a Secretary of State John Kerry there was upset among  then Trustees and John Waihee (former Governor and lead influencer for federal recognition), even when there was approval from the Chair at that time (Collette Machado).  The recent contract extension for Ka Pouhana by then Chair Robert Lindsey substantiates a pattern of decision making and repercussions that have unintentionally  vilified Ka Pouhana.   It is the kuleana of current Trustees to clarify their internal processes for decision-making.