The electoral constituency of Vaisigano No.1. has voted for the Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi [F.A.S.T.] party candidate, Niuava Eti Malolo leading to the defeat of the incumbent M.P. Lopao'o Natanielu Mu'a, according to unofficial results. 

The F.A.S.T. candidate collected 798 votes, a lead of 281 votes compared to his opponent, Lopao'o who contested under the Human Rights Protection Party banner (H.R.P.P.) and polled a total of 517 votes.

A third candidate, who also flagged the H.R.P.P. banner, Tuiasau Uelese Petaia polled a total of 22 votes. 

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, after the preliminary results were announced, Niuava was ecstatic. 

The former Senior public servant at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E.) immediately acknowledged God's love and mercy for his victory. 

"I am overwhelmed with joy, and it's thanks to our God for his guidance, protection, and love all throughout this journey," Niuava said. 

"I am a strong believer that God has different callings and plans for our lives. He already has everything planned out and in his time, we shall see what those plans are. 

"This journey from the beginning, when I first felt like this is something I should do was no walk in the park. It was not easy, and there were so many hurdles to overcome down the road. But we are here, and we are thankful and grateful."

Niuava also used the opportunity to acknowledge and strong support and love of his constituency for placing their trust in him to serve and be their representative in the Parliament for the next five years. 

"From the beginning, there was no intention to lure people and force people to vote for me. I did what I had to do to help people at the grassroots level and make sure that they are aware of the plans I have for them and for our constituency."

When the preliminary results got out, Niuava said he was humbled and honored to have been given such a huge blessing. 

He said it reminded him of the biblical story of how King David ascended to the throne of Israel. 

"I am nothing but a humble servant, with a big heart that is willing to do good things to better the lives of the individual families within my constituency and to serve my country. 

"But I guess it's true what they say, God will always make a way and choose those he believes is fit for the role. I humbly accept his calling and the journey he planned for me and my life, and will always rely and lean on to him to guide me through this journey."

Niuava was the Project Manager of the Pacific Ridge to Reef Project within the Ministry but exited last year to prepare for the election this year. 

He also dedicated more than two decades of his life to education including being a school principal at the college within his constituency. 

Niuava, who is married and is the father of three children, is from the villages of Vaisala, Auala, Safune, Lano, Iva and Vaitele Fou.

He wanted to make special mention and acknowledges the ongoing prayers of his church ministers, not only in Savai'i but also at the Penieli Fou Church in Upolu. 

He is a strong believer in the strong support of his church ministers, families, friends, and constituency says with God at the forefront it has contributed to his success.