POLITICAL rallies have been banned in Falelatai Village, seat of Samoan head of state, Tuimalealiifano Va’aleto’a Sualauvi II.
Samoa’s elections office has written to the leaders of the FAST and SUP political parties, emphasising the village council decision to ban rallies.
The decision has drawn criticism, with politicians questioning the constitutionality of the action. It has been described as a prevention of free and democratic elections through political interference.
The Falelatai and Samatau Constituency has been represented by an HRPP candidate for the last two terms. The HRPP Chairman, Falelatai, Lupematasila Fa’amanū Ivara, also banned political rallies in the lead up to the 2021 general elections.
Lupematasila Tologata Tile (HRPP), Faalavaau Fasitau Ula (SUP), and Teleiai Christian Ausage (FAST) will contest the seat. Faalavaau and Lupematasila are from Falelatai and Teleiai is from Samatau.