The M.P. for A'ana Alofi No.1. has appealed to the Prime Minister and her Cabinet to look into allowing Samoans abroad to vote in the next general election. 

Fesola’i Tusiupu Tuigamala, who is also the Associate Minister for the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration, made the call on Thursday in parliament when delivering his maiden speech. 

He is of the view that Samoans residing overseas contribute a lot to the economy and the development of Samoa, therefore, their voice should be made known through elections by giving them the chance to vote for Samoa from where they are staying. 

"Honorable Prime Minister your Cabinet, we ask that you look into this issue," Fesola'i said. "Why don't we give our people the opportunity to vote for Samoa from where they reside."

Furthermore, Fesola'i reflected back on the F.A.S.T. party's journey starting from the campaign period for the April's general election until now, with contributions from families, friends, party supporters and Samoans overseas who rallied and supported them.

"If we look back to the beginning of our (party's) journey, you'd be amazed at how much our people have contributed for the party," he said.

"It was not an easy journey and it needed a lot of money so we could implement and carry out our plans, but they came to our aid and supported us all throughout our journey. 

"Therefore, why don't we give them the opportunity to vote in the next elections? Please, we humbly ask that you look into the matter."

The issue raised by the M.P. for A'ana Alofi No.1., was among a list of policies and plans outlined in the party's manifesto which was launched prior to the election. 

In relation to this particular subject, the manifesto stated that F.A.S.T. recognises the importance of the Samoan diaspora overseas in the development of Samoa, and will advocate for Samoans citizens residing overseas to participate in the election of members of Parliament in Samoa. 

Furthermore, as the Associate Minister of M.J.C.A. Fesola'i also sought help from the Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure, Olo Fiti Va'ai for a proposal to ask for a generator for Samoa's Courthouse. 

Fesola'i said there have been instances where courts had been postponed and adjourned recently due to power outages.

"Not only does it add on to the load of work and delaying courts proceedings, but it's also a waste of money if we pay people (working at the courts) because they were then forced to go home because of that," the Member said.

"Therefore, I suggest that we bring in a new generator next week to avoid such an issue."

Nonetheless, Fesola'i also pushed for educational developments, healthcare, agricultural developments within his constituency.