In a strange way, society respects the criminal because the criminal has the guts to go against the social order. But what social order, we might ask?
It is the rule of law; the foundation that ensures civility and order in a nation. Laws create an environment of respect and goodwill among citizens, fostering progress while rejecting unlawful and unethical behaviour. These laws bind a nation to raise the living standards of its people and attract foreign support from peace-loving, law-abiding nations as a sign of good governance and responsible leadership.
Our nation is founded upon God, a principle enshrined in the Constitution of Samoa. Yet, we find ourselves in a peculiar situation where some support an individual who has been criminally charged and is, quite frankly, the cause of the political unrest. Is it blind loyalty? Ignorance? Both? Do these individuals understand the importance of obeying the law, or do they believe they are above it? It is puzzling to see educated individuals align with a stance that blatantly defies the law, leading us to question whether they are fit to hold high office.
Samoan politics is treading in uncharted territory, despite past upheavals. The government, though led by a fragile minority, has twice settled the question of confidence in Parliament. The attempt to remove Fiame through a second no-confidence motion exposed FAST’s internal discord for all to see. Fiame endured relentless attacks from former colleagues, raising concerns about Cabinet’s internal dealings.
It is disheartening to see Samoans in Auckland protesting issues that have already been resolved in Parliament—issues that, if anything, were created by La’auli and his faction. They call for a leader who follows the rule of law. Yet, that is exactly what Fiame has done. It was La’auli who defied leadership, proclaimed himself untouchable, and refused to resign.
Fiame has withstood what could be described as two coup attempts. Now, she travels to London as Chairperson of CHOGM, sharing the stage with King Charles. What, then, can these protestors do? Instead of disrupting Mangere markets and carparks, they should advocate for something meaningful; like visa-free travel, a cause currently championed by Anae Arthur Anae. If they truly want to support Samoa, their placards should read,
“We are Samoa… Chairperson of CHOGM… Visa-Free for Samoa.”
But instead of being a nuisance, perhaps they should be rounded up and taken to the nearest bingo hall, where they can put their government benefits to better use with a chance to win a prize.
Enough of the tomfoolery.
Let’s do something productive and move forward as one nation, united in progress and purpose.
