Dear Editor,

Tuilaepa’s letter, titled 'The weight of words,' raises serious concerns about the destructive power of words and the rising tide of online threats and misinformation.

I fully agree that the law must be upheld and that those who abuse their freedom of expression to spread hate or threats, like the blogger, should face consequences. But what concerns me is the selective outrage.

Tuilaepa singles out the Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa, accusing her of doing nothing to protect the country from division. But what exactly is it that he expects Fiame to do beyond what she is already doing?

Since taking office, Fiame has consistently chosen restraint over retaliation. She has extended the hand of reconciliation numerous times by avoiding inflammatory responses to repeated public attacks, by respecting court decisions that brought an end to the 2021 political crisis, and by focusing her energy on rebuilding governance and public trust rather than engaging in political point scoring.

She has not used state platforms to mock or demean political opponents. She has spoken calmly, led soberly, and demonstrated leadership that seeks to heal rather than deepen wounds. Isn’t that the essence of reconciliation?

Tuilaepa, on the other hand, was once the most powerful voice in this nation. He had decades to set a tone of respect and civility in public discourse. Instead, his leadership was often marked by mockery, harsh language, and personal insults, especially dissenting voices.

Reconciliation is not achieved by pointing fingers but by taking responsibility, something all leaders, past and present, must be willing to do.

Umi Fuimaono