Do not let emotions cloud your judgment. The political calamity that the nation is faced with is because people opted not to follow the rule of law. The matter is as simple as that.

On Tuesday, when Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa clarified her decision to sack four cabinet ministers, she made it clear that it had to do with the rule of law. The supreme law of the land, the Constitution of Samoa allows the prime minister to do what she has done. She has remained within the limitations provided to her under the Constitution.

The nation is at this crossroads because some members of parliament assumed that they were above the law. This is how it all started. The charges against the former Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries stem from such alleged actions including fabricating evidence and attempting to perverse the course of justice.

No politician had previously been held accountable for blurting out whatever comments they wanted without backing it without evidence and in this instance, Laauli thought he too would not be held accountable because of seniority in the government. This time this was not the case. The police have charged him because he broke the law.

This was followed by his sacking. The Prime Minister under the law could do that. She exercised the powers vested in her by the Constitution. She has reiterated that the law must take its course, and the law is blind to status.

Fiame’s actions display the principle that no individual in a position of power should be exempt from the law, regardless of their position. Samoa’s Constitution provides a clear framework for handling such situations when public officials are implicated in criminal cases.

Disregarding the rule of law will undoubtedly have far-reaching negative impacts on a whole-of-government scale, including the undermining of our judicial system and the abilities of our law enforcement agencies to fulfil their duties in maintaining law and order, and peace and harmony.

While the sympathisers of the political leaders impacted by Fiame’s decision may think or comment otherwise, it is clear that if the rule of law had been followed from day one, we would not be here. Elected officials need to understand that they are leaders and as leaders, they are accountable for their actions.

Politicians should also realise that no one is above the law. It is equal for everyone whether you are a prince or a pauper. The court will sentence a chief and a commoner to the same sentence for the same crime.

The internal bickering within the Faʻatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) party is because some members had hoped that their leader, the Prime Minister would use her influence to protect another party member.

Fiame knew better. She knew that nothing good comes from abusing her powers. She knew that she was accountable to the people and the law of this land. This caused discontent among members and some petitioned her removal.

Fiame realises that internal party politics is secondary. Her main objective should be working for the nation and the people. The government must fulfil its duties. It has to improve infrastructure, health, and education, eradicate poverty and make sound laws. The government has to ensure the distribution of the $1 million grants.

To achieve these targets and also to ensure the growth of the economy, Fiame needs a team willing to work with her and not against her. It is very critical when there is political discontent that the agencies of the government hold fast to their mandates and conduct their work professionally.

The integrity and trustworthiness of the ministerial team are paramount. Let the law lead us forward.

Divisiveness will create political instability. Samoa is stronger and more effective when it is not at the mercy of individuals thinking of their own political ambitions.