The resignation of a cabinet minister following traffic-related charges was an act of “honouring the Rule of Law” says the Fa’atuatua ile Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) government. 

Former Minister of Commerce Industry and Labour, Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua opted to step down from his ministerial role this week while he faces the court. He is still the member of parliament for the Aleipata Itupa i Luga constituency. 

Faleomavaega was charged on Monday with one count of negligent driving causing injury and one count of dangerous driving connected to a car crash last week at Le Mafa pass. 

He recently told the Samoa Observer stepping down was something that should be done and he was abiding by the law. 

Following Falemavaega’s decision to resign, the FAST government on its Facebook page said “Honouring the Rule of Law is second nature to leaders who understand the Constitution and the Standing Orders of Parliament. 

“Honour is earned not just expected,” it added. 

"Honourable Minister Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua. The legacy of a Samoan champion repeats on the field of rugby that cemented Samoa in world rugby history he consistently walks the talk.” 

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa in a press statement said she had the opportunity to discuss with the minister about his decision to resign.

“The Head of State has accepted Faleomavaega’s resignation effective midnight tonight, Thursday 3 April 2025,” she said.

“He has decided to resign from his portfolio responsibilities, because of respect for the rule of law and protection of Cabinet’s integrity.

“This will enable the Honourable Minister to concentrate on preparations for his Court case. It is imperative to maintain the principle of justice that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”