Archbishop Mosese Tui says it would be a lie to say politics in Samoa leading up to the election was peaceful. He said politics has divided families and villages.

Archbishop Mosese was speaking at a special televised programme of the Diocese of Pago Pago last week.

He was asked by the host, Fr. Pio Afu of his thoughts as Samoa was gearing up for the election.

"I'm scared to see the language used on social media, politics in Samoa nowadays is way different from the olden days, where Samoa was always peaceful with the leadership of the past politicians," he said.

"This happens as I observed when FAST was formed and went on to rival HRPP, and now there has been another party formed, SUP, so it's a lie to say that politics in Samoa is peaceful," he added.

Fr. Mosese said as a leader of the Catholic Church in Samoa, he is not aiding any political party, and this is a reminder to all church leaders to stay neutral and pray for Samoa as general election draws near.

"In parliament in the olden days, it's true the leaders argued during Fono sessions, but after that they came outside, they laughed and greeted each other like nothing happened," he said.

Fr. Mosese said the language on social media was embarrassing, and it crushed Samoa's tradition of respect.

He said when FAST was formed, that's when he noticed this rivalry between these two parties, HRPP and FAST, and it was made worse with the influence of overseas Samoans attacking with no understanding of what's actually happening in Samoa.

Fr. Mosese said it was his prayer during every Mass that Samoa would be back to where it all started, the love and peace that God wants us to share.

Most denominations in Samoa will have special prayer services to pray for a peaceful general election this week.

A special Holy Mass will also be led by Archbishop Mosese on Sunday at 4 pm for the same purpose, and everyone is welcome to attend.