A 2021 election candidate Ali'imalemanu Alofa Tu'ua'u has described the Supreme Court’s decision to get her and two other women into parliament as a “win for all women.”

The Court on Wednesday ordered that Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P.) members, Aliimalemanu Alofa Tuuau, Faagasealii Sapoa Feagai and Faatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (F.A.S.T.) party member Toomata Norah Leota are to be sworn in forthwith as Members of Parliament.

The decision of the Court covered two separate matters: the first one was a legal challenge filed by the H.R.P.P. women members after the Speaker of the House Papalii Lio Masipau rejected the swearing-in of the additional members. The second challenge was pursued by Toomata and F.A.S.T. party challenging the calculation of the additional member and alleging the provision was discriminatory. 

Speaking to the media after the Court’s landmark judgement on Wednesday, Ali'imalemanu told the Samoa Observer that she was finally at peace and relieved that the Court has ruled in their favour.

Thanking God for her return to politics, over 13 months after the end of last year’s general election, the yet to be sworn-in Member said the Court’s judgement maintains the extra seats for women in parliament.

"I would also like to thank all the women of Samoa, young and old," said Aliimalemanu. "Those who have supported and prayed for me and all those who have been by my side supporting me through all of this.

"As I said before, I made this sacrifice and fought this battle on behalf of women in Samoa and future women leaders in the country."

She also used the opportunity to thank her constituency Alataua Sisifo and those who voted for her.

"I know I would not have had the chance to be appointed as an additional women member under this provision if they did not vote for me."

Reflecting back on her 13 months journey, Aliimalemanu said it was not easy, especially with the difference of opinion and the abuse she and her family were subjected to.

"It was not easy and at times things got rough especially with slanderous words and defaming comments made by people towards me, especially on social media platforms which offended and caused distress to the people I love, my children and also my constituency. 

"But I held on and kept fighting for all the women in Samoa, that's why I am relieved and thankful today, for the Lord had provided me with the strength and courage to continue on with this fight."

Despite the challenges, Aliimalemanu said not once did she feel like throwing in the towel due to all the scrutiny and pressure she was getting.

"And I owe it to God for the calmness he placed in my heart and for the will to continue on. "Moreover, I was not doing this for myself, I fought hard and held on for all the women in Samoa because I understand and know that the contribution of women in Parliament is vital. "As a mother, I learned from the previous parliamentary term that women's contribution to decision making and parliament is needed. 

"I have watched what has become of our parliament and the political landscape in Samoa in the recent months with disappointment as it lacks peace and calmness, which I think is why we need more women in parliament, so they can iron out any indifferences in parliament."