Dear Editor,

Before I speak a word, I first faatulou — I bow in respect to our Alalafaga, the gathering of our people, le Nofo a Tulafale, and the various Tauaga Ese’ese of Falealili. Tulouna lava. Special greetings to the malaefono of Poutasi and Fagamalama, Lalofau and Leatumalama, Fanuatanu, Papa and Faati‘uga, Falefasa and Paepaefoa, and Falepunaoa, where rest the honoured descendants of Fanene, Taloolema‘agao, Uso na toto, Mamalu o le Toafa, Lufilufi ma Taulauniu, le Matua ma Salelea‘alii, and the Lautinalaulelei. Tulouna Faleupolu o tofiga ma to’oto’o o Falealili ma le lotoifale o le Manusamoa.

I also greet with respect our families, Alii ma Faipule in Falealili No. 2, for we are one family, united by lineage, heritage, and cultural ties.

The matter at hand

I was saddened to read in the Samoa Observer (3 September 2025, Bethel Peato-Ale) about the allegations that police are gathering evidence against certain candidates and claims that some FAST candidates attempted to pressure officials into counting special votes. I will not comment on the other constituencies, but I speak directly to my own district, Falealili No. 1 — the land where I cast my vote and where I hold my matai title Patea at Sapunaoa village.

With respect, tulou le suafa Toelupe, our elected candidate. My words here are not meant to destroy but to encourage and admonish with love. I also say clearly: let the law run its course and do its duty, for no one is above the law. At the same time, I urge the people of Falealili No. 1 to show forgiveness to Toelupe Pou for his weakness and to continue to lift him up in prayer.

A call to change

Toelupe Pou, your votes were higher than the other three candidates who contested the Falealili No. 1 seat. This shows the strong trust and support you carry from our people. But I must tell you, as a brother and a friend, this is not the Toelupe Pou I once knew during our time in public service, nor the humble aoao fesoasoani of the EFKS Church.

If these allegations prove true, I urge you to change. This is not the behaviour of a candidate who seeks to honour God, nor of one who will sit humbly in the seat of Parliament for Falealili No. 1. Remember: you are not representing yourself alone. You represent our district, our matai, and all our communities. Every action and decision you make reflects on us all.

Humility before God

If your victory is confirmed, then walk humbly. Do not rely on men or on your own knowledge. Rely on God, the Creator of all. Pray for wisdom, courage, and humility.

Wear the title Toelupe with pride, honour the village of Poutasi, and take seriously the counsel of the Alii ma Faipule of Poutasi and of the district. A true leader accepts straight words and wise advice with humility.

My brother, if you fail, you will not fail yourself alone — you will fail Falealili No. 1. I speak with love, but also with firmness, because our district deserves leadership that honours God, protects the dignity of our people, and works for the common good.

Closing

I hope and pray you will hear these words and take them to heart. Change your path, humble yourself before God, and lead with integrity. That is the Toelupe we want to see — not one led by pride or pressure, but one led by God’s wisdom and Spirit.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6)

Manuia le Tapuaiga a Samoa i lenei aso.

Patea Loli Lolofietele M. Setefano

Matai of Sapunaoa village