Former Cabinet Minister changes constituency

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 30 September 2020, 1:00PM

A former Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Lemalu Enokati Posala, has confirmed his candidacy for next year's General Election.

But instead of running from Safata which he previously represented using his Manu'a title, Lemalu has become the latest addition in the growing list of candidates for Lefaga and Falease’ela.

The 60-year-old businessman will be carrying the Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P.) banner to compete against incumbent M.P. and another H.R.P.P. member, Tole'afoa Ken Poutoa.

Asked why he has switched constituencies, Lemalu said it was the wish of his village of Matautu Lefaga for him to do so. 

“In Samoa we have many families and we have more roots than a tree,” he told the Samoa Observer.   

“I have done my work in Safata and it is the wish of my village (Matatutu) for me to represent them from here and I would very much like to continue my service in the current government. 

“As you are aware I was inside Cabinet and was involved in decision making and I still have that trust for H.R.P.P. and the current leadership.” 

Lemalu said he was bestowed the matai title in Matautu some 30 years ago and running from Lefaga was not something unexpected. 

In terms of development in the constituency, he said it is important that access roads to his electorates plantations are constructed so they can continue to work their land. 

He pointed out that the majority of the constituents live near the ocean and better access roads inland will encourage people to move inland and eventually reside there. 

“The sea level continues to rise on that side and an option is to build better access roads inland so that people can migrate in and develop those lands,” he said. 

“A hospital is crucial for the district as well as electricity and water supply is an ongoing necessity. Maintenance of school buildings is also on the agenda.” 

For the close to five years since he failed to retain his seat in Safata, Lemalu has been quietly operating a store and a bakery in Lotofaga that services people in the area. 

He also runs the Matai Survey Service at John Williams Building in Matautu.   

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 30 September 2020, 1:00PM
Samoa Observer

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