By Martha Taumata Fa’avae
A 5 year journey ended for members of the 16th Parliament of Samoa when it was officially dissolved at the Tiafau Malae today.
For the majority of the 50 duly elected leaders entrusted with the leadership of Samoa the political road ahead will be decided by the April 2021 General Elections.
Whether they will continue into the 17th Parliament of Samoa or not the voters will decide.
The only exceptions are 5 of the members who are not seeking re-election for the new Parliament.
All except one have decided it is time to end their long political journey in retirement.
Today was their last day and the emotions were running freely for Speaker Toleafoa Fa’afisi, Aeau Peniamina Leavai Seeta and Fa’aso’otauloa Pati Taulapapa as they made their final farewell.
“I have served Samoa,” Aeau Peniamina said with tears in his eyes as he reflected on his long distinguished political career.
“This is the thought that I cherish the most at the end my time in Parliament and I thank God for granting me the strength to serve Samoa.”
Aeau is apprehensive at the political divisions in the build up to polling day and is calling on the voters to vote on who they believe in and not party election promises.
“Pray for the Lord’s help in making your final choice with your vote.”
Speaker Toleafoa Fa’afisi reflected with a similar sense of satisfaction at the knowledge that he has been of service to the country.
“It doesn’t matter what position you served in, the satisfaction is knowing yourself that you have served your constituency and country to the best of your abilities,” Speaker Toleafoa summed up.
“Whatever we passed in Parliament what is most important is that it is to protect and show a sense of loyalty and patriotism to Samoa.
“I too am so thankful for the blessings of being elected to serve my constituency and Samoa as a Member of Parliament.
“My prayers are for the Lord’s presence at these uncertain times in the lead up to our general elections.
“We should all stand together in prayer as a people for divine guidance in our election choices for the future of Samoa.”
Fa’aso’otauloa Pati Taulapapa believed his re-election for a second term was a blessing from God.
“I dedicated myself to working not for my family or my constituency but for Samoa.
“My prayers are for God to show us the way in our general elections so we can all celebrate the blessings for Samoa at the end.”
The Minister of Women and Social Development, Tuitama Dr. Talalelei Tuitama, completes the group on the retirement list. Aiga-ile-tai MP Mulipola Laki is not seeking re-election after serving out his first term in Parliament.