We often hear the term “collective responsibility” used by politicians and leaders of organisations working towards a shared goal. One of its strongest advocates has been the Leader of the Opposition and former Prime Minister, Susuga Tuila’epa Dr Sailele Malielegaoi, who referred to it many times in Parliament and rightfully so.
Collective responsibility is essential to the smooth running of government, and no Samoan government in the last 50 years has been immune from challenges relating to this principle. Rogue MPs, rebellious ministers, and internal squabbles have shaken governments, sometimes to the brink of collapse.
The most shocking example was the 1999 assassination of Minister Luagalau Leva’ula Kamu. Two Cabinet Ministers in the HRPP government, Toi Aukuso and Le’afa Vitale, were convicted of the crime. It marked a failure to uphold collective responsibility. A Cabinet reshuffle ordered by Prime Minister Tuila‘epa was not accepted. Greed and hunger for power took over, and a crime was committed that shocked Samoa and the world. Some say it was the moment Samoa lost her innocence.
Today’s political landscape still carries signs of deep rivalry. Tuila’epa of HRPP and La’auli of FAST are dominant figures with strong personalities. Both believe they know how to run Samoa, both have claimed divine support, but there’s a key difference, one served as Prime Minister for 23 years, the other did not complete a single term as Minister.
In contrast, Fiame Naomi Mata‘afa and the Samoa Ua Potopoto Party (SUP) have carried themselves with dignity since the FAST collapse. She has remained composed through both personal and political attacks, and stayed firm in her commitment to the law and the integrity of the Prime Minister’s office. Her Cabinet maintained collective responsibility through turbulent times and into the current caretaker period. There have been no major scandals, something Samoa has long needed. These are signs of a team capable of governing with maturity and peace.
Of course, short-term promises and giveaways may appeal to voters come August. But we must ask ourselves, do we want short-term comforts or long-term stability and prosperity for Samoa?
We all share a collective responsibility, not just politicians but every citizen, to act wisely now so that our children and our people can have a better future.
We cannot afford to become a welfare state where dependence on government is the norm. We must encourage self-reliance and critical thinking. Free handouts may offer relief, but they risk weakening our drive and replacing problem-solving with passive expectation.
Samoans are not loafers. We are natural conquerors of the world. Given the opportunity, we can lead again. The Samoa Ua Potopoto Party looks like the best alternative to guide our nation toward solid foundations and unlock the potential of our people as builders of a strong Samoa.
John Malaeolevavau Peterson was born, raised and attended school in Samoa. He worked in New Zealand and Australia but now lives in Samoa. Writing is a hobby, and he has a keen interest in political landscapes both local and global. He loves supporting and preserving indigenous cultures and true histories, enjoys sport, and is a strong supporter of efforts to address climate change, especially in the Moanaloloa (Pasifika).
