The General Manager of the National Health Services, Leota Laki Sio, has tendered his resignation. He has done this so he could contest the Parliamentary seat for Palauli le Falefa in March’s General Elections.

The seat is currently occupied by the former Minister of Finance and the Associate Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Faumuina Tiatia Liuga.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer yesterday, Leota confirmed his decision. He declined to discuss his election plan saying all will be revealed in due time.

Leota was into his second three-year term contract as General Manager when he left. 

Fifty-one days from the General Elections, posters of Leota’s campaign are seen in the island of Savai’i around the Palauli constituency and in Salelologa. 

Prior to Leota’s resignation, he was honoured with an Inspirational leadership award during the Public Service Commission awards. The award noted that Leota had done extremely well in “working towards improving the local and international funding partners to gain the relevant support for the development of the National Health Services, medical supplies and corporate support.”

The award highlighted Leota’s leadership, which required him to implement changes, including the restructuring and development of services such as the building of new hospital facilities. Leota took on the role as General Manager for N.H.S. when it was separated from the Ministry of Health.

The position has been advertised.

In the meantime, Matasesa Soi is the Acting General Manager.