The Leader of Opposition Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi voiced strong concerns over the National Taskforce’s decision to close the road between Mulinu'u and Taumeasina during the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (C.H.O.G.M.). 

Tuilaepa, the former Prime Minister of Samoa argued that the extensive road closures planned for the meeting were excessive and unnecessary.

In his weekly press briefing, Tuilaepa called on the organising committee to reassess their strategy, suggesting that they should consider the practices of previous host countries. 

He recalled that Rwanda, the host of the previous C.H.O.G.M., managed to conduct the meeting without imposing comprehensive road closures. 

According to Tuilaepa, such drastic measures could have a significant impact on local communities and more practical solutions should be explored.

“There is no justification for keeping the roads closed to the public for such an extended period,” Tuilaepa said. He proposed that the committee could limit road closures to specific times when dignitaries are being transported, rather than shutting down access throughout the entire event. 

“They could close or restrict some parts of the road when the Kings and delegations are being transported to the venues, but there is no need to completely close off the roads for the general public,” he added. 

Tuilaepa also pointed out that areas such as Sogi and Mulinu’u have residents who will be affected by these closures.

The Opposition Leader further criticised similar road closures during public events, including recent parades. 

He cited the parade for Miss Samoa contestants as an example where he felt road closures were unnecessary. “There was no need to close the roads completely during that parade,” Tuilaepa remarked. 

“Instead, they should have stationed police officers in the middle of the road and allowed traffic to continue on the other lane.”

Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo defended the road closure decision. He explained that the Ministry of Police, Prisons, and Correction Services conducted a survey and found that businesses in the town area could navigate using alternate routes. 

Commissioner Auapa'au emphasised that the closures are intended to ensure the safe and efficient movement of delegates during the meeting.

According to Commissioner Auapa'au, the road closures will be implemented in phases. The first two days of the meeting will see partial closures, with restrictions gradually increasing. By the third day, the road from Mulinu'u to Taumeasina will be entirely closed to the public. Access will be restricted to those with accreditation and vehicle passes.

The Commissioner reiterated that these measures are crucial for maintaining security and ensuring the smooth transportation of international delegations. 

Despite the inconvenience posed to the public, the safety and logistical considerations of the meeting take precedence, according to the police.

In Rwanda, parts of the main roads were closed throughout the meeting, but only when delegations especially heads of different governments travel to and from meeting venues. The roads were then open to the general public throughout the day.