Safeguarding the opportunities and blessings that will benefit Faleata No.4 is what Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) candidate Ale Vena Ale wants to do after retaining the seat following the final count of votes on Monday. 

In an exclusive interview with the Samoa Observer, the seasoned politician expressed heartfelt gratitude to his constituents and reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the continued development of the district. He also opened up about his health and amputation surgery that he has just returned from.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to the honoured and respected people of the Faleata No.4 constituency. Especially all the chiefly families, as well as everyone residing on government land in Toamua-uta and on Retzlaff land in Puipaa,” Ale Vena Ale said. “I am deeply grateful for the trust they have placed in me once again to carry the responsibility of representing the constituency.”

Despite the ongoing political process, he emphasised his dedication to ensuring that Faleata No.4 will benefit from the party’s proposed development initiatives, including the $2 million District Development Grant fund earmarked for district projects.

“I will do my utmost to safeguard the opportunities and blessings that will benefit Faleata No.4 through the plans of the FAST party and its $2 million development project for constituencies,” he affirmed.

Ale also acknowledged the importance of unity and cooperation within the political landscape. In a commendable show of sportsmanship, he expressed gratitude to his fellow candidates, Pepe Christian Fruean of the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) and Mapu Tafaigata Toilolo of the Samoa Uniting Party (SUP), who contested the seat alongside him.

“I extend my sincere thanks to my two fellow candidates. Let us work together for the service and betterment of Faleata No.4,” he said.

Beyond politics, Ale Vena Ale opened up about his personal health challenges, revealing that he has undergone an amputation and now lives with one leg. Despite this significant obstacle, he remains optimistic and in good spirits.

“The nation now knows that I no longer have one of my legs. However, I still feel physically strong, and according to the doctors, I can live a long life with my current condition,” he revealed. “I have plans to get a prosthetic leg so I can walk again.”

Ale pledged to continue working tirelessly to represent their interests and ensure their district benefits from future development opportunities.

As the political situation unfolds, Ale Vena Ale’s focus remains clear: to serve his constituents with integrity and dedication, regardless of the broader outcome.