The nation’s public servants' union, Public Service Association, has called a special meeting this Saturday after action was taken against some of the nation's most senior bureaucrats. 

In a notice from the President of the Samoa Public Service Association, Karamellie Tuala she announced the meeting to be held at 9 am at the Tu’utu’uleloloto hall in Mulivai. 

When contacted for a comment, Ms. Tuala said there is a meeting scheduled on Saturday but declined to provide details about its contents. She said she would call back but did not do so by press time.

The meeting comes after the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance, Leasiosiofa'asisina Oscar Malielegaoi, was told to step down from his post on the orders of the Finance Minister. 

The order from Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo inspired opposition from within the ranks of the nation’s bureaucrats. An unsigned open letter to the Minister was circulated on social media and shared by public servants including the Land Transport Authority chief Titi Tutuvanu-Schwalger.

The Association has long been a dormant force in Samoan politics. But it flexed its political muscle with a long-running strike in 1981 that demanded all of its members be reinstated by the Public Service Commission and for a salary increase. 

The P.S.A.’s mass demonstrations eventually led to the toppling of the Government of the day at the time and ushered in the ruling Human Rights Protection Party to office. 

The sudden call from the Association follows the expression of dissatisfaction from public officers over decisions made by the new Government on top bureaucrats. 

In addition to the resignation of the Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Finance, two other top public servants have been suspended.

The Attorney General, Savalenoa Mareva Betham-Annandale and Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, Tiatia Graeme Tualaulelei are placed under suspension. 

The open letter describes its signatories as “concerned and affected senior public servants”.

“In spite of our political affiliations and views, we have sworn Oaths before the Almighty God to serve Samoa through our Government,” the letter noted. 

“This is normal in any vibrant democracy, and we would like to think that as a mature democracy in the Pacific, Samoa should continue to shine as the leading example of democratic principles.”

It asked the Government to give their trust in the officials. 

“We take comfort in your words that the “public servants remain, but governments change”,” the letter stated. 

“We share in the hope of a new Government looking to build our nation. 

“Give us your confidence and trust that we the Public Servants will serve in accordance with our Oaths…” 

The Public Service Commission said on Monday that they have not been served with the letter from the said concerned and affected public servants.