SAMOA will soon begin a new chapter following the conclusion of the official count from last week’s general elections and the subsequent conveyance of the writ to the Head of State.
Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa congratulated the winning political party, Faatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST), and its leader Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt (Prime Minister-elect), who will now steer the country into the future.
“The voters, who turned out to exercise their fundamental right to vote. Your voices matter, and the choices you make in electing your representatives in Parliament over the next five years will hopefully deliver to your expectations for a better Samoa.
“I now take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for your patience and active participation in the electoral process.”
Fiame acknowledged the leader of the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), Tuilaepa, and all other political parties’ leaders for their contributions to ensuring a peaceful and robust general election.
“Thank you to the electoral officials, police and all observers and the Electoral Commissioner and his dedicated team of officials for their tireless efforts in ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.”
As her government prepares to complete its Cabinet duties, she thanks Samoa for standing together with the government in driving what was carefully planned to enhance sustainable development and well-being.
“As Prime Minister, I have wholeheartedly committed to leading the government in accordance with the requirements of the law and policies, governing operations in a fair and equitable manner.
“At the regional and international arenas, I have ensured that our voice as an independent country was amplified with the collective voice of the Blue Pacific family on issues crucial for regional unity and solidarity to promote our priorities.
“That resonated with the feedback from the leaders around the globe on our consistent advocacy of our climate goals and stewardship of our ocean and protection of our biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction,” she said.
Fiame added that their collective efforts in successfully hosting the signing of the SAMOA agreement in November 2023 and the Commonwealth Leaders meeting in October 2024 have placed them on a platform as a sought-after host for international meetings and a viable tourist destination.
“Our successes would not have been possible without public support and trust in the government’s systems.
“Our unity as a nation that is founded on God and respect for our cultural values has shielded us from the torrents of time and challenges of our democracy.
“Together, we have weathered the rampage of COVID-19 and recently the dengue epidemic with the help of our development partners.
“What we have jointly accomplished in my term as Prime Minister shall be made for the glory of God upon whom this country is founded,” she said.