Somebody recently asked me on January 2nd, 2025 about my new year’s resolution and my quick response was, “I keep on hoping against hope for better things to come in 2025”.
In these trying times, we have no choice but to rely on God’s divine mercy and the wisdom of His Word.
We are reminded that we, as mortals, must not depend solely on our own understanding but instead trust in God’s words to ask and it will be given; knock, and the door will be opened.
God resides in each one of us – the true temple of the Lord.
All we need to do is ask, provided we remain within His grace.
Our nation urgently needs miracles, not just one, but many.
Our domestic borrowings from the Accident Compensation Corporation and UTOS have increased significantly.
Our healthy credit deposits have disappeared, and now the National Provident Fund is engaged in unnecessary insurance schemes to prop up its cash reserves.
Where is the Minister of Finance?
It is his duty to say “NO” to reckless spending and prevent further financial deterioration.
With the general elections approaching, the path to insolvency seems increasingly inevitable.
Tupua Tamasese Meaole’s warning during the days following our Independence that the funds to develop Samoa do not fall from heaven, remains a vital lesson we have yet to fully grasp.
Tightening our belts seems to be the way forward for Samoa.
Even our development partners will not continue supporting countries that waste the hard-earned taxes of their citizens through irresponsible spending.
As we welcome the New Year, let us pray for the wisdom and courage to face these challenges head on, and seek God’s guidance in making the tough decisions needed to secure a better future for us all.
Happy New Year, Samoa!
Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi
Leader of HRPP