Samoa has recognised the rights of the "third gender" who are accepted into the community and the society, says the Opposition Leader, Lauofo Pierre Lauofo.

Speaking recently in Samoa's first-ever Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (C.P.A.) Branch meeting at the Legislative Assembly, the Opposition Leader expressed concerns at recommendations put forward by other countries at such forums 

Lauofo reminded the Members to bear in mind that most countries that are making recommendations on ways to promote "gender equality" do not have strong cultural values and beliefs.

He said the issue is always a complex and sensitive one and he is of the view that it should be a topic that the Parliament should consider looking into so that they would know how to address it in the future. 

Referring to Samoa's existing laws linked to the issue, Lauofo reminded the House that homosexuality and sodomy are forbidden in Samoa.

"At this stage, it is not allowed in Samoa, however, there have been recommendations to legalise it with other countries already adopting those rights," the Opposition Leader said. "So what's happening is that members of those countries are present in some of these meetings and they push for this issue and try to get other countries to join. 

"They want other countries to legalise homosexuality and treat everyone equally. But the truth is, even though we call them transgender (fa'afafine) they were born male."

Adamant that the issue is very sensitive to be discussed in the Parliament, Lauofo is of the view that creating conversation around it could bring about positive ideas for the future and believes that Samoans have also recognised the rights and contributions of fa'afafine in the community.

"They too can get matai titles in our villages and are given the same opportunities as everyone else. But same-sex marriage is a very complex issue and we need to understand the motive behind the recommendation or presentation of these points.

"Whether it's for us to discuss and come up with legislations to recognise these rights or to initiate legislation around these issues. Or maybe they just want us to think about it in the future. However, I believe that Samoa has accepted the third gender in the community and treats them with respect and equality."

Another Member of Parliament for Anoama'a No. 1, Alai'asa Salele Moananu was also of the view that Samoa has a number of laws in place to ensure every citizen is equal.

Making reference to the political participation of men and women in Samoa, Ala'iasa said both males and females can enter the Parliament under the same conditions. 

He also noted that Samoa is among the top countries with more representation of women as sitting Members of Parliament and highlighted the milestone of the country having its first female Prime Minister. 

However, he said he was not happy with the recommendation for the "unrepresented gender" to be treated equally as other genders in the country.