Two villages have endorsed lawyer and businessman, Lei'ataualesa Jerry Brunt, as their candidate for the 2021 General Election.

The villages of Faleu in Manono-uta and Manono-tai convened a village council meeting last Saturday where the decision was made, according to the Village Mayor, Lesa Tominiko.

"We are very sure that Lei'ataualesa is ready for this and we have no doubt in our decision,” he said.

“Not only is he a lawyer, he has a good educational background and the village believes he’s more than qualified to represent and take care of the village and its people’s needs.

"He has done a lot for Samoa through his services and we believe that he can do the same for our residents and continue to do that for the whole nation." 

The Village Mayor claimed that 90 per cent of the members or matai have agreed to let Leiataualesa represent the village.

Attempts by the Samoa Observer to get a comment from Lei'ataualesa were unsuccessful.

Lesa said three other people showed interest and wanted to put forward their candidacy for the village Council’s consideration, but were rejected by the village as they did not have the qualifications.

Lei'ataualesa is the top candidate to represent Faleu, he added, as the villages have benefited since he became a matai.

“He has never missed out on anything the village does including monotaga since he was bestowed a matai title here years back.”

Leiataualesa is the owner of Bruntkeli law firm, Orator Hotel Chief Executive Officer, Manaia Events Director, and Honorary Consul for the Republic of Korea. He is also the Samoa Athletes President.

"We're very confident in our candidate. He's one of those where we look forward to what the future brings for him and our village."