Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) Party hopeful Vui Sione Masinamua has decided to opt out of the election race ands has given up his bid to contest the Fa'asalele'aga No.5 seat.

During the FAST roadshow at Fa'asalele'aga No.5 on Tuesday, Vui declared that he would not be contesting and was moving aside to give a chance to the other FAST candidate, Vui Sione I'iga.

During his special remarks, Vui Masinamua said he decided to obey what his village wanted, and that is for him not to run but to support Vui Sione I'iga.

"Even though I felt sorry for my family, friends and supporters who have already travelled from overseas to support me but I would rather obey what the village wants," Vui said.

"Vui Sione, you have my blessings, and I will be beside you throughout your campaign.

"I know my family and supporters are disappointed in my decision not to run, but as I've said, it's better to obey than to run. If the village does not agree, they do not agree.

"I apologise if I in any way hurt anyone through my decision not to contest, I will give my full support to Vui Sione."

Vui Masinamua was one of the four candidates vying for the Fa'asalele'aga No.5 seat.

Other candidates are Peseta Vaifou Tevagaena, Vui Iiga Sione Iiga and Vui Seigafolava Ana Nora Ah Him.

Vui Masinamua was also tried to run during the 2021 general election but did not succeed because of some legal matters with the Office of the Electoral Commission during that year.