Dear Editor,

As Samoa moves closer to one of its most consequential elections in modern history, one question sits at the heart of national debate. Who is truly fit to lead Samoa through the next chapter, one marked by uncertainty, economic strain, and the demand for political maturity?

Among the leading figures, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Laauli Leuatea Polataivao, and Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa—the contrast in leadership could not be clearer. And for many Samoans weary of political games, the answer is just as clear: Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa, leader of the Samoa Uniting Party, is the steady, principled leader Samoa needs now more than ever.

Even in these final days before the election, Tuilaepa and Laauli remain locked in personal rivalry, engaging in public name-calling and belittling each other’s manifestos. Their supporters, rather than debating policy, have turned to online mudslinging, character attacks, and cheap theatrics. It’s a bitter back-and-forth that serves no one, not the economy, not the people, and certainly not the future of Samoa.

Meanwhile, Fiame and her SUP team remain steady. Composed. Focused.

They are not flinging insults or stirring division. Fiame has consistently chosen maturity over noise and action over drama. Her leadership style stands in deliberate contrast to the political chaos stirred by others. While others are campaigning on personality and populism, Fiame is campaigning on performance.

Let’s not forget, Tuilaepa’s HRPP ruled for nearly four decades, transforming from a symbol of political strength into a machine of unchecked power. His refusal to concede in the 2021 election and the weeks of constitutional crisis that followed did lasting damage to Samoa’s institutions and international reputation. What could have been a dignified transition became a democratic standoff.

Laauli, once seen as a bold reformist, now finds himself in ethically murky waters. Despite being charged by police in a high-profile corruption case, he has refused to step down from his ministerial post. Such a refusal sends a dangerous message that personal political ambition can trump accountability. Samoa cannot afford a repeat of the same old cycle where leaders cling to power even when under legal scrutiny. If the rule of law only applies when it’s convenient, then what kind of example are we setting?

Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa, by contrast, has never placed herself above the law. She entered office in 2021 under historic circumstances as Samoa’s first female Prime Minister and the first leader in decades to break HRPP’s grip on power. But she did not govern with vengeance. She governed with discipline and calm resolve. In times of political crisis and economic pressure, she has led with a cool head and a clear heart.

Under her leadership, Samoa has returned to democratic norms. She has restored the dignity of Parliament, respected the independence of the judiciary, and focused on rebuilding trust between government and citizens. Her government has worked to correct past excesses and put public service back at the centre of politics.

Fiame does not shout. She does not insult. She does not evade responsibility. She leads.

So, as the country stands on the edge of another decision point, this election is no longer just a contest between parties or personalities. It is a test of Samoa’s political maturity. Will we choose more noise, more ego, and more personal battles, or will we choose calm, capable, and principled leadership?

Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa and the Samoa Uniting Party have offered the country stability, vision, and respect. Not just in words, but in action. And that is the kind of leadership Samoa needs to move forward with unity, not division.

Let others rage and bicker. Let others chase power at any cost. Fiame stands firm not in the spotlight, but in service. And for a country that has had enough of political storms, that steady hand may be exactly what saves us.

Umi Fuimaono