Vote for change: Palu

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 04 March 2016, 12:00AM

Samoa needs a new government.

That’s the final message from the Tautua Samoa Party as voters head to the polls for today’s General Elections. Voting opens at 8am and closes at 3pm.

Leader of Tautua Samoa, Palusalue Fa’apo II, believes only the Tautua Samoa can ensure there is justice and equal opportunities for all – if they are given the opportunity to rule.

 “Give us the opportunity and let us be the change,” Palusalue said.

“If we continue on like this, the H.R.P.P. will only build up our foreign debt and the children of our children will pay for it.

“According to the Prime Minister, the foreign debt is not a problem to him. I beg to differ. The debt is $1.3billion and it’s growing. The future of this country is bleak if that continues.”

Palusalue said the government’s plans are reckless. He said they don't make any sense.

“They talk about building new wharves that we don’t need and big airports which will only hurt each household with the cost of living continuing to rise,” he said. 

“With the Tautua Party, our priority is people. We want to make sure people are at the front of all developments. We want people to get equality in education, health services. 

“And pensioners, whether you are weak, poor, sick or rich everyone is equal.

“But we need to change the government so we can make it happen with your vote.”

In comparing the manifesto from the Human Rights Protection Party to theirs, Palusalue said it was clear that the priority of the ruling political party was not people. 

Looking at the manifesto, the leader explained it mainly talked about buildings, airports that no one will use and wharves that are not necessary. 

“They talk about developments and we are talking about people being affected directly and their needs,” said Palu. 

“If you remember all these developments are the work done by any political party who comes into government. The H.R.P.P is not doing it because they are so great. That is their job, it’s what they are paid to do.

“The question is, is that the most effective use of our money and limited resources?”

Palusalue said the Tautua promises to answer that question if they win.

 “So if we win we will also carry out these developments such as road construction, seawalls and other things. 

“What is important is we prioritise people and their welfare. When we do that, we exercise caution when we carry out developments. We will be mindful about the impact of the foreign debt on our people and their lives.”

Palu pointed out that such developments have contributed to the foreign debt immensely so people are hurting and having to pay extra costs on service levies and V.A.G.S.T. 

“The reason why they haven’t raised the minimum wage is because they don’t have the money; instead it’s been directed to pay for the debts,” he said.

Finally, Palusalue urged voters to exercise their rights with their votes. 

 “Our country is founded upon God and our traditions,” he said. 

“Samoa we depend on the spirit of God and we pray for a peaceful election.

“May God bless Samoa.”

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 04 March 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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