In an interview this week, PM Laauli revealed that District Development Committees in constituencies held by HRPP and Independent Members of Parliament shall be chaired by FAST Party candidates who were unsuccessful in the recent general elections. It is a move that undermines democracy in Samoa and tightens Laauli’s dictatorial grip over the nation.

Elevating failed FAST election candidates to roles that are above district leaders who have been duly elected by the people is disrespectful and sets a dangerous precedent.

According to the PM, this approach will ensure that FAST programs will be implemented smoothly without any questions asked.

To achieve this, applications to Chair District Committees were nominally opened to all individuals and closed last Friday, November 14th 2025. The Cabinet will then select its preferred candidates, specifically those who were directed to apply.

This gives the public a false impression that the FAST government had followed a transparent selection process in identifying the most qualified candidates to oversee and manage the $2 million per district grant that the FAST Party promised during their campaign road shows.

However, the public is well aware of the abuses that the nation suffered under the FAST1 government when taxpayer and donor funds intended for the welfare and care of our people were diverted to benefit FAST Party members. Basic health services fell apart, salaries went unpaid, and electricity was rationed as FAST Ministers’ homes were upgraded and properties leased as District Development Committee offices.

The first MP affected by this policy change is Hon. Leatinuu, the SUP Member who secured his seat uncontested. Having had no opponents, Hon. Leatinuu by default should automatically chair his District Development Committee. Yet, FAST refuses to recognise this outcome, and the MP is now seeking the Court’s intervention.

HRPP Members of Parliament have strongly rejected the change of policy as it facilitates the misuse of public funds, and undermines our financial regulations and accountability frameworks.

It is this same tactic that the FAST1 government used to create confusion and destabilise our communities. With the FAST2 government, we can already expect double the chaos and double the cost.

Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi

Leader of HRPP