P.M.’s message to Govt. Chief Executive Officers

28 January 2018, 12:00AM

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Dr. Sa’ilele Malielegaoi has challenged the government Chief Executive Officers not to be afraid of making tough decisions that they know will benefit Samoa. He delivered the message during a swearing in ceremony on Friday where he said dwelling on criticisms would only result in nothing being done. This is what he said:

Today’s occasion marks the genesis of a new chapter for our newly appointed Chief Executive Officers, and I congratulate you on your appointments. Your oath this morning is affirmation of your commitment to serve this country with honesty, humility, respect, and above all love.

The Word declares that there is no authority except from God. Your calling therefore shall glorify the Lord whom this country is founded upon.

As Chief Executive Officers you are expected to lead by example as responsible custodians of public offices. 

Leaders who lead by example neither confine themselves to the comfort of their offices, nor depend on reports on the business of their organisations, but are constantly on the ground to make sure that targets are delivered as planned. Immediate and responsible decision making is as crucial as its implementation.

We are a small country and every opportunity that comes our way that will benefit our people should be prioritized. Government however depends on your technical advice. 

If we do not seize those rare opportunities with wise and timely advice to government, we may never have a second chance. Procrastination is a very serious ailment that stifles steady and prosperous progression to sustainable development and growth. 

The government has developed systems and processes to provide its services to our people. The application of these systems depends principally on you as technocrats to deliver. Timeliness and quality are crucial components of our service, and this ostensibly comes with determination and commitment. 

As C.E.O’s you are role models of change in your organizations. You have been chosen to make a difference, and to take the organization to a new level. 

Performance is therefore vital in achieving your targets. We should always remember that we are accountable for our actions, and you have sworn before God this morning to do what is best for Samoa. 

Do not hesitate to make tough decisions that will benefit our people. There is a natural tendency to resist new changes particularly if such will take people out of their comfort zones. Criticisms are unavoidable, but we will never deliver what we ought to deliver for this country, if we dwell on criticisms and do nothing. 

Collaborative partnership through regular dialogue and timely feedback is paramount to a healthy working environment. You need your team and your team needs you. 

Do not leave a hiccup to become a difficulty, and be wary of any root of bitterness springing up that causes trouble. 

Be attentive to your staff needs and treat everyone the same. 

Your journey as C.E.O’s will be met by turbulences along the way. Whatever challenge that comes your way, God will never forsake you if you submit and yield to Him. We will not succeed by depending solely on our knowledge and understanding. We are vulnerable without the divine leadership of the Holy Spirit. 

The Word declares to acknowledge God in all our ways, and He will direct our paths. In God, all things are possible.

History vividly reminds us of many leaders who tried to conquer the world with their might and sheer power, but failed miserably because they sought their own glory. 

There are many other capable citizens whom God can choose C.E.O’s from, but He has chosen you as His instruments to serve Samoa for His glory. 

Allow Him to take control of your vision and plans, and He will multiply according to the abundance of His grace.

I wish you all the best in your appointments. 

God bless. Soifua.

Prime Minister of Samoa: Tuilaepa Dr. Sa’ilele Malielegaoi 


28 January 2018, 12:00AM

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