A RECENT governance survey has laid bare a disconnect between Samoa’s political leadership and its people.
The majority of respondents believe leaders only look after the wealthy, that development benefits are unfairly distributed, and that only a select few – chiefs, business owners, and government officials – truly have a say in how the country is run.
The questionnaire, gathered responses from Samoans, mostly aged 18–35. The respondents were sent a link through which to participate in the online survey. While the findings show a population that understands democracy and values human rights, they also reveal deep frustration with government inefficiency, cultural barriers to rights, and a judiciary and media perceived as neither fully independent nor free from political pressure.
‘Culture and Tradition’ – A Double-Edged Sword
When asked about the biggest challenge to human rights in Samoa, the most common answer was not lack of laws, but “B. Culture and tradition.”
Several respondents noted that while human rights are understood as “rights and protections for all human beings,” traditional power structures – particularly matai (chiefs) – often override individual freedoms.
“Human rights is not active in Samoa; usually elder or matai take advantage of their titles to silence the rights of youths,” one respondent wrote.
Another added: “We need to integrate culture and human rights without clashing beliefs.”
Less than half of respondents believe human rights are adequately protected, and ratings for the government’s responsiveness to women’s and girls’ participation in political affairs ranged from neutral to dissatisfied.
Political leadership: ‘All Talk, No Work’
Ratings for the current Prime Minister (in contrast to former leaders) were strikingly polarized – ranging from “Very Good” to “Very Bad,” with a heavy cluster of negative comments.
“He’s (not truthful) and been in court for bad cases,” one respondent said.
“He is a hypocrite who talks about the law but in reality, is the law breaker. Uses his power to dictate and control.”
“All talk, no work lol,” another wrote.
Others acknowledged positive steps, such as a one-time $150 per person distribution, but the overwhelming sentiment was worry about the future. When asked how political leadership makes them feel, the most common answers were: “Leaders are only looking after the rich” and “Worried about the future of my country.”
Only a few have a say
A recurring theme across both Samoan and regional responses was the belief that political participation is not genuinely open to everyone.
“Only the ones who have money and power,” one respondent explained.
“Matai (chiefly title holders) and the wealthy,” another said.
“Members of parliament, high-ranking chiefs, and church leaders.”
Many answered that while voting happens, real decision-making remains concentrated among elites.
Development benefits uneven, public funds mismanaged
More than half of Samoan respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed that development benefits have been fairly distributed across the country. Comments pointed to urban-centered projects, political instability, and a minimum wage that remains very low.
On public funds, most were either neutral or dissatisfied with management, and few believed funds were used efficiently. Top priorities for increased spending: education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. Top areas to cut: government travel, overseas trips for ministers, and “themselves.”
Democracy supported, but a fair few may not vote
While most respondents said they plan to vote in the next election – citing civic duty and the right to choose leaders – a significant minority said they would not, due to bribery, lack of trust, or living abroad.
“Some of the candidates bribed people to vote for them,” one said.
“Nope. Some of the candidates bribed people to vote for them.”
Suggested improvements to democracy included: fairer and more transparent elections, more women and youth in parliament, civic education, and reducing the influence of money in politics.
Judiciary and media: lack of confidence
Most respondents rated the judicial system as “moderate/neutral,” but many believed political influence affects judicial decisions. Confidence in the judiciary’s ability to act independently was low, with answers ranging from “neutral” to “very unconfident.”
The media was widely rated as “neutral” or “not independent,” with corruption, lack of resources, and political interference cited as the biggest external challenges.
What Samoans want: transparency, fairness, and action
Across all sections, a consistent message was there: Samoans, especially young people, want leaders who are transparent, accountable, and fair. They want development that reaches rural and outer islands, not just urban centers. They want human rights that respect culture but do not allow tradition to justify abuse. And they want a democracy where every vote truly matters – not just those backed by wealth or chiefly titles.
“Start from the Prime Minister and the government,” one respondent urged. “Lead by example and set safe spaces where everyone can freely express themselves.”
