Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt delivered a video message at a Fa’atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) party roadshow for Vaimauga No. 3 candidate Taiolaiiseu Fiti Aimaasu in Magiagi on Saturday, his first appearance since being medically evacuated to New Zealand.

Laaulialemalietoa's virtual message was broadcast live on the FAST party’s official Facebook page after Health Minister Va’aaoao Salumalo Alofipo introduced the prime minister to supporters.

“I apologise for the way this message is being conveyed,” Laaulialemalietoa said, explaining he had travelled overseas the previous week for medical treatment. “God has given me strength, and the doctors have asked me to rest for a few more days.”

In his virtual address, the prime minister acknowledged past representatives of the constituency, including the late Tapunuu Niko Lee Hang and former member of parliament Lautimuia Uelese Vaai. He also referenced a previous candidate, Nonu William Maui'a, before turning his focus to Taiolaiiseu’s decision to leave the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) and join FAST.

“Taioaliiseu came and spoke to me about moving from HRPP to join FAST,” Laaulialemalietoa said, noting the decision was not easy given prior campaign preparations. He said he advised the candidate to consult with his constituency.

The prime minister acknowledged the importance of the Vaimauga No. 3 constituency, describing it as a key source of national resources, including water and electricity.

He pledged his support for Taiolaiiseu, saying the switch to FAST would benefit the constituency and improve access to government-led projects.

“The government of Samoa is for everyone,” he said, adding that "having a representative aligned with the ruling party would help secure larger development opportunities."

Laaulialemalietoa also highlighted infrastructure needs in the district, including roads, water systems and security, following a visit last month. He called on voters to support proposed legislative changes to create additional urban seats for the Vaimauga No. 3 constituency.

“We need the support and vote of our district of Vaimauga No. 3 to pass the bill to change the laws and create a new seat for the district, including an additional seat for the surrounding town area,” he said.

Several cabinet ministers attended the roadshow, including acting Prime Minister Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molioo, which lasted about three hours at the EFKS Hall in Magiagi.