An election candidate vying for the Gagaifomauga No.1 seat in the 2021 General Election is philosophical about his chances of winning. 

Timu Iakopo Timu will be up against the Minister of Health, Faimalotoa Kika Stowers, who currently occupies the seat. Both are contesting the election under the ruling Human Rights Protection Party [H.R.P.P.] banner.

The 47-year-old registered with the H.R.P.P. on Tuesday and was accompanied by a former Parliamentarian and former Minister of Justice, Ga'ina Tino. 

Timu understands that contesting in the election is no walk in the park. However, he said it has been a dream for him to "continue the legacy of his forefathers" in serving the constituency, this time as a Member of Parliament.

"The aim is to serve the village, district and country," Timu said.  "I also want continue on the legacy and the hard work our forefathers worked for in the past.

"But every calling is from God. The decision and the appointment comes from Him. If it is his will that I become the new representative for our constituency, then it will happen."

As a farmer, Timu said his focus if he succeeds will be on "encouraging people to work the land."

"I have a plantation, a cattle farm and I operate a sheep husbandry," he said.  "We have big lands in the village and some of those [lands] are uncultivated. That's one area I want to focus on, to encourage people to work the land so they can earn money from it. It's a good way to get money for them and it contributes to the economy of Samoa."

Asked about why he is contesting now, Timu said he feels it is his time to serve. 

"God will make it happen if this is my time. I am 47 years old and I am still young. I've been wanting to contest, but we waited I am matured enough to run. So we thought this it the right time."

Lastly, Timu said he welcomes the task of challenging the incumbent M.P. for the seat held by the Minister of Health.

"Faimalotoa has done so much for the district and so as our forefathers. I have nothing against her.  

"As you can see that I am wearing my rosary. Anyone who wears the rosary, should not worry about anything. Whatever the outcome will be, I am not nervous or worried about that. 

"If Faimalotoa returns in office, I will gladly accept it. If I succeed, the praise goes back to God. But I am not worried at all."

Timu said he will officially inform Safotu about his decision to run when the village meets again. 

Timu, 47-year-old, from Safotu. He is married to Nila and they have 14 children. 

Gagaifomauga No.1 consists of the villages of Manase and Safotu.