‘I am only a servant’

By Pai Mulitalo Ale 17 March 2016, 12:00AM

The new Member of Parliament from Vaisigano No.1, Lopao’o Natanielu Mu’a, says the wait has been worth it.

Now that his victory over former Member of Parliament, Tufuga Gafoaleata Faitua, has been made official after the release of the final result, the M.P. said he is ready for his new role.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, he said he is thankful to Asau but also to the support of his constituency.

“It has been worth the wait,” he said. “Fifteen years I have waited.”

Lopao’o said his village approached him many years ago to run but he didn’t want to.

“I waited for the right time. Today, I thank my village. I consider it an immense honour to represent them in Parliament.

“I thank God for choosing me. We all prayed and I asked God for this. We also prayed for other candidates who did not win the race.” 

Lopao’o is a first time candidate. The H.R.P.P, he said, was the party chosen for him by his voters.

 “Our village has been serving Parliament under the opposition for many years,” said Lopao’o. “We felt that it was time to change so that we can have a lot more say in the developments that are happening.”

And now that he is onboard, the M.P said there is a lot of work to do.

His priorities are in the areas of education, infrastructure and creating employment oppotunities. He also wants to revive the koko Samoa industry as a way of creating jobs for young people.

“I will not rest” he said. “I will keep on reminding the government about what needs to be done for Vaisigano No1.” 

The new Member of Parliament acknowledged his fellow candidates including their former M.P.

He also thanked Amituanai Tautofi Roma, Paiali’i Mao II Ropati and Vaai Papu.

Born in the village of Asau, Lopao’o went to Asau Primary and to Fasaga Sataua Intermediate School before he finished his studies at Avele College.

Lopao’o then left Samoa in 1981 for New Zealand where he lived, studied and worked.

Before returning to Samoa, Lopao’o was the Contract Manager for ACI Glass Company in New Zealand. 

Lopao’o, 57, is married to Siaumau Kena Mu’a and they have eight children. 

By Pai Mulitalo Ale 17 March 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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