It has been confirmed that the Head of the Births, Marriage and Death Office, Fiu Ponifasio Vasa, is contesting in the upcoming general election on 29 August, despite previously claiming that it was just rumours.

Fiu is one of the three candidates vying for the Palauli No.3 constituency seat under the Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) Party.

The other two candidates are Leota Laki Lamositele and Faaolatane Fiu Iona Pao.

When Fiu Ponifasio was asked to confirm whether he's running or not two weeks ago, he denied contesting.

"As you can hear me on the phone, I'm still here working, and I can confirm that I am not contesting the upcoming election," Fiu said.

Fiu had been rumoured to be linked to the upcoming general election under the Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) Party. He was questioned about this. He said he doesn't want to comment about this.

However, Samoa Observer was able to confirm that he was present at one of FAST's special events last Thursday of officially welcoming one of their candidates, Va'aaoao Salu Alofipo, who will be contesting for the Vaimauga No.1 seat.