Members of the public have opened up to what they hope the next government will prioritise once it comes into power. They want a government that fears God, loves Samoa and serves them.

Theresa Tunufono said her only wish is that whichever party God chooses to lead Samoa in the next term, sets their priorities straight. 

"I don't support any particular party because we see that despite the many parties that have registered, they all have the same goal, which is to serve Samoa. However, so far, all we've heard from these parties are their promises, which makes us ask the question: will they deliver these promises? 

"Or are they just throwing it out there to get the people's vote? All I'm praying for is that God chooses a leader who will prioritise Samoa's needs as a whole instead of just one party. Whoever comes up on top after this election, may he or she always put Samoa's needs first before his own."

Few others shared how they want those who will be chosen at the helm to prioritise education, the health sector and Samoa's high cost of living. Tunumafono Toleniu said he has seen the struggle some families go through every day, not only in terms of finances but also in their livelihoods.

"Our government resources should be used wisely in the areas that need our attention. For instance, in education, there is a need to invest in education to push our younger generations to school. I think there are still children dropping out of school, and I have also heard about the low literacy and numeracy levels for our students. The state of our hospital also needs attention. There are areas where the attention of those whom we will elect in the upcoming months, and let's hope and pray they will hear our voices," he said.

Esau Taavao shared the same sentiment and added that Samoans have been constantly voicing their opinions on certain matters, but those at the helm continue to ignore the cries of the people. 

"Let's all be vigilant, and as the slang that is now common, 'Palota ma le Poto" (vote wisely) is being thrown around by our people. Why not follow that slang? 

"Let's use the one time that our voice matters, let's vote in people who will be able to do something to make Samoa a better place. Whether it'll be FAST, HRPP, SLP, SUP, and other parties, let's vote with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. 

"This is what I always tell my kids who are eligible to vote: Use your vote wisely. Vote for whoever you think can help in the development of Samoa, but do not vote just because you are related, or friends or just because other people are telling you to. Use your heart and God's guidance when you vote."

It is in their belief Samoans who will be casting their vote will think of what their tick today means for the next five years.