Dear Editor,

The recent court proceedings on election petitions continue to reveal the shocking level of corruption in Samoa’s election process.

It is the normalisation of corruption that is overtaking our nation, led by members of parliament.

The amount of out-of-court settlements is now reaching six figures!

Where is this money coming from? Who is receiving these huge cash payments? Who is really in control of the country?

These out-of-court settlements are allowing members of parliament who are participating in illegal and unethical practices to walk away with impunity.

They and their supporters even justify their actions by saying that everyone is doing it, so what's the problem?

They tearfully ask everyone to move on in the name of God, peace and harmony.

It is all pretence.

Our districts are now being split apart by greed.

Influential cultural leaders and pastors who received large cash payments during the elections are fueling resentment against those in their districts who raise questions or do not support their political views.

These cultural leaders and pastors have become an embarrassment to their communities, who know everything about their corrupt deals.

The nation turns to the courts in the hope that they will stop this normalisation of corruption and reverse the practices.

It does not take a genius to see what will happen when the bribery money runs out and parliament is filled with those who do not believe in accountability and transparency.

Heaven help us!

Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi

Leader of HRPP