In a historic and proud moment for Samoa’s fa’afafine and fa’atama community, two prominent members of the Samoa Fa’afafine Association (SFA) have announced their candidacy in the upcoming national elections scheduled for 29 August 2025.

Afioga Falesaopule Seimaleula Vaialia Iosua will be contesting in the Gagaifomauga District, while Afioga Siligatusa Alosina Ropati will stand in the Vaimauga District. Both are respected matai (chiefs) and senior advisory councillors within the SFA.

Their decision to enter the political arena has been welcomed with immense pride by the Association’s Executive Council and broader community, who view this bold move as a powerful reflection of the progress toward equality, inclusion, and representation.

“Their courage is a testament to the timeless truth that time and tide wait for no one,” said the SFA in a public statement. “Samoa’s laws have always acknowledged the equal rights of all citizens, including fa’afafine leaders, to participate in public life.”

While they seek to represent their families, villages, and electoral districts, Seimaleula and Siligatusa also carry with them the hopes and aspirations of Samoa’s wider SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression) community.

“It is your fa’afafine dignity and your calling to serve that guides you to leadership,” the statement continued. “You are not only matai, but heirs to the legacy and future of your families and villages.”

The Association expressed deep support for the two candidates, invoking its enduring motto: “Ia tumau pea i le soifua tauivi ma le tautua alofa” — to remain steadfast in the struggle and service that comes from love.

“We salute you both. May you remain resilient through the trials of politics and remain anchored in your commitment to serve Samoa with courage, grace, and authenticity,” the statement concluded. “We are proud. We are united. We are Samoa.”

The 2025 general election is expected to see a number of fresh faces, but the candidacy of these two fa’afafine leaders marks a significant and symbolic chapter in Samoa’s political history.