The political tug of war for Government power between the two main parties has not affected sworn officers who assure that their utmost duty is to uphold the law. 

The men and women in uniform have played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the nation throughout a tense, politically-charged period surrounding the General Election. 

During the swearing-in ceremony held outside Parliament on Monday, there was a significant Police presence at the Malae i Tiafau. 

Police Commissioner, Fuiavailiili Egon Keil on Monday made it clear that they do not take a political side with the unprecedented developments. 

“We are really honoured to perform our function as the primary law enforcement of Samoa,” said Fuiavailiili. 

“As you know as law enforcement, we are supposed to enforce the law and we don’t take sides. 

“We treat everybody the same. So today is just a display of our commitment to peace, and civility as we go through the process.” 

An extraordinary scene on Monday was that of the procession of the Judiciary led by the Chief Justice, His Honour Satiu Simativa Perese from the Court House to the House of Parliament. 

The Police Commissioner and his officers escorted the members of the Judiciary upon request. 

Close to a hundred officers were stationed at Parliament, with surveillance officers deployed. 

After meetings with the leaders of the three branches of Samoa's Government, including the Head of State, the Commissioner ensured that “our position is unwavering that we are here to protect the integrity of our Constitution and protect our guests…”

The doors to the House of Parliament were closed on Monday, but the Commissioner said the Police had no part to play in that development.  

Police officers were stationed outside Parliament on Monday morning, to secure the premises. 

“We assist in this process [and] that is not our role to change or tweak law,” he said. 

“They [leaders] have to decide and the three branches [have to] figure it out without any influence from the Police.

“All there is, we enforce the law and we don’t have any influence to today’s event to close Parliament doors.”

The security detail at the Court House has been increased in recent weeks, especially in relation to matters concerning the election and the Constitution. 

The Malae i Tiafau has been under heavy surveillance by Police as well.