Former British Prime Minister Harold Wilson once said, “A week is a long time in politics.” The late Labour Party leader was referring to how quickly fortunes can shift in political life. In Samoa, five weeks is beginning to feel even longer.

It has now been five weeks since Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt was admitted to hospital in New Zealand. In his absence, Acting Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo has stepped into the spotlight, managing press conferences, representing Samoa at the United Nations General Assembly, addressing Parliament, and projecting a growing sense of confidence in the top job. Some might argue he appears increasingly comfortable in the role.

Samoa’s political history has shown that winning the hearts of the people can get you into power, but keeping the confidence of your caucus is what keeps you there. That confidence often stems from courage, and Toelupe’s blunt response a couple of weeks ago when asked about the Prime Minister’s health was precisely that. “He is unable to stand,” he said.

It was a rare moment of transparency from a senior government figure. Yet almost immediately, the Government of Samoa released a digitally altered photo showing the Prime Minister sitting on a chair that does not exist, replacing his wheelchair, during a meeting with New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters.

The manipulated image, perhaps intended to project strength, instead raised questions of credibility. Was the decision to release the photo a coincidence, or an attempt to counter Toelupe’s frank admission by suggesting all was well with the Prime Minister?

The appointment of two Deputy Prime Ministers was already viewed by many as a sign of internal tension within the ruling party. Now, with the Prime Minister away, it is only natural that Toelupe has taken charge. But it may be unsettling for the Prime Minister, watching from afar, to hear his deputy publicly state that he is unable to stand.

What is most troubling is not only the altered photo itself but the government’s silence since its release. Officials have refused to explain who created it or why. One senior official told the Samoa Observer they had “sworn to serve the government of the day no matter what.” But isn’t the greater duty to serve and not mislead the people?

In this case, it seems the officials are acting like politicians, while a politician is acting like an official. For his honesty, Toelupe deserves credit. Although there remains a petition challenging his election, his growing composure and decisiveness suggest the confidence of a man who may already command strong support within his caucus.