While the new Associate Minister for the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (M.W.C.D.) says he was shocked by his new appointment, he is undertaking to serve the nation as best he can.

Seuamuli Fasi Toma is the Member of Parliament for Gagaemauga No. 2 and will work alongside Leota Laki Lamositele to lead the Ministry of Women for the next five years. 

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, Seuamuli who is a Deacon Elder, a lay preacher and a farmer, is of the belief that God has definitely placed him where he is needed. 

"As you know, before I entered the world of politics, I have been a farmer and a matai who looks after the village," Seuamuli said. 

"So I feel like all that I went through has prepared me for this particular role. 

"This is a humbling experience for me and I cannot explain how grateful I am. I give the glory back to He who appointed me."

In saying that, the 56-year-old first and foremost acknowledged the strong support of his constituency. 

"I would not have been in the position I am in right now if it weren't for them. For me, I only wanted to be their voice in Parliament as they asked me to contest. 

"The journey has not been easy as you know, but thinking back to it, I can only say with a grateful heart that God has been there for me, and for us through it all. 

"There were so many challenges along the way and at times I felt like giving up, but the strong push and encouragement I got not only from my village of Fagamalo, my friends, my siblings overseas but also from my wife and children. 

"I am truly humbled and I owe it to them all."

Looking ahead, Seuamuli is optimistic. 

"I am a strong believer that every calling is from God, so I am looking forward to seeing the opportunities there so I can help develop the Ministry and give back to the community. 

"I feel like God has prepared me for this new role for so long.

"I am someone who has been serving and looking after the village for so many years. I understand the different issues the average families go through on a daily basis. 

"Even the village affairs. I have a fair understanding of the issues within the village and how they are solved.

"So being in this position, I am looking forward to developing the ministry and help our Minister serve our people to the best of our abilities."

"I was born and raised here in Savai'i, and have lived here all my life. I don't have a land or house in Upolu so I stay here with my family and I look after my family and also our village. 

"For someone who stays here in the village and the constituency, I know exactly what the people need the most."

Seuamuli also commended the former government for what they had done in the previous years. 

"These transitions are normal in a democratic nation and we acknowledge them for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the country. 

"It is now our turn to serve and lead our country and we hope our country will continue to support us going forward.

"We are nothing but servants and we promise to do our best to serve our people."