Teanau Tuiono’s Citizenship (Western Samoa) Amendment Bill, now law, seeks to rectify the injustices of the 1982 Citizenship Act, which removed the citizenship rights of Samoans born between 1924 and 1949. The bill restores eligibility to those affected and highlights a long-overdue correction to a historical grievance.
From the outset, community support played a pivotal role. Former National MP Anae Arthur Anae, through the grassroots movement Mau a Samoa i le Sitiseni a Niu Sila 2024, rallied support by engaging communities in Samoa and New Zealand. The Pacific Leadership Forum, chaired by Teleiai Edwin Puni worked alongside other groups like the Auckland Council Co-Chairs Forum to mobilise submissions and raise awareness.
Tuiono’s Early Motivations
In an interview with Samoa Newshub, Tuiono shared how he was approached by Renee Schwalger, a friend from Palmerston North. Renee’s father, Hance Schwalger, had asked her to pass on a message: “Tell Tuiono he’s got to fix this.” Tuiono also had conversations with the late Fa’anānā Efeso Collins, whose passion for justice and advocacy deeply influenced him, as well as others who echoed similar concerns. “I was like, oh, okay,” he recalled. “I had a look and decided to act.” These early interactions, coupled with his upbringing in close-knit Pacific communities, motivated him to take on the challenge.
Overcoming Legislative Hurdles
The bill entered Parliament through the member’s bill process, often referred to as “biscuit tin democracy.” Tuiono worked behind the scenes, reaching out to key figures like Aupito William Sio and seeking input from across the political spectrum. “Aupito was very approachable,” Tuiono noted, describing the importance of collaboration and advice.
During the Select Committee phase, Tuiono faced challenges in expanding the bill’s scope. He initially proposed free citizenship restoration and automatic eligibility for descendants of those impacted. However, these amendments were rejected by the National and NZ First parties. “I gave it another shot in the Committee of the Whole House, but their stance didn’t change.”
During the 60th anniversary celebrations of the Treaty of Friendship between Samoa and New Zealand in 2023, Tuiono spoke with Māori Party co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, who offered early support for the bill. He also had conversations with Jamie McDowall from the ACT Party, who expressed encouragement while consulting with his caucus. During the second reading of the bill, “when ACT stood up to support it, I was very pleased.”
Strengthening Ties and Looking Forward
Beyond legislative mechanics, Tuiono stressed the importance of maintaining strong relationships with Pacific communities and leaders. He recalled meaningful discussions with Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters, who shared insights from his time in Parliament during the original 1982 Act debates. “Winston understood the importance of this relationship for Samoa,” Tuiono said, reflecting on their shared conversations during the Pacific Mission.
The bill also brought attention to broader issues, such as visa waivers for Sāmoa. Tuiono questioned why Samoa, despite its Treaty of Friendship with New Zealand, remains excluded from visa waiver agreements. “It puzzles me that we talk about friendship, yet Samoans face these barriers,” he said.
For Tuiono, the process was not without its doubts. “Sometimes you wonder if there will be much support,” he admitted, reflecting on the initial steps taken by Anae Arthur Anae to overturn the 1982 Act. However, his determination and persistence never wavered. “If I fail, I fail, but at least I tried,” he said.
A Historic Achievement
The unanimous passage of the Citizenship (Western Samoa) Amendment Bill represents an important moment in New Zealand–Samoa relations. While its scope remains narrower than Tuiono initially envisioned, the law is a step toward addressing past wrongs and strengthening ties between the two nations. The tireless efforts of leaders like Anae Arthur Anae, community groups, and individual advocates demonstrate the power of collective action in correcting historical injustices.
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