The A’ana Alofi No. 3 seat that was previously held by Ili Setefano Ta’ateo has gone to the Faatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (F.A.S.T.) party candidate Agaseata Valelio Tanuvasa.

Ili initially registered as an Independent but was announced as a member of the Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P.) with his banner also spotting the ruling party's logo. 

An educator for more than 40 years, Agaseata took over the lead with 675 votes with Ili coming second with 560 votes.

The former Principal of Nofoalii Primary School, he told the Samoa Observer earlier that it was his dream to enter the political arena. 

In the last general election in 2016, Ili secured the constituency seat under the banner of Tautua Samoa. Together with the veteran M.P. for Falealupo, Aeau Peniamina Leavaise’eta they were the only representatives then of Tautua Samoa. 

In an earlier interview with Samoa Observer, Ili said reports that he would be crossing over to join the ruling H.R.P.P. was just speculation and maintained he was still an Independent member.

“Part of the reason [why I have entertained the switch] is because some of my constituents have approached me to change. 

“Before the last general election [2016] a lot of my constituents wanted me to go under H.R.P.P. but there was also the other side that wanted the Tautua Party. 

“So the decision on which party to run under will depend on the upcoming meeting of my constituents and whatever they say that is where I will stand.” 

Attempts by the Samoa Observer to get comments from Agaseata were unsuccessful.

However, in an earlier interview with the Samoa Observer, he said it was his dream to serve his village and constituency by becoming a lawmaker. 

He said it was his aim to improve the livelihood of members of his community. 

The ex-student of Avele College started his schooling at Nofoalii Primary School, eventually returning years later to take charge as the  principal. 

Agaseata said just as he has served diligently in his family and village, in the same manner, he is ready to serve his constituency and country. 

At the time, Agaseata named same of the many projects he had in mind for the constituency which included better plantation roads for the village of Nofoalii to ensure accessibility. 

In the area of education, the candidate says there needs to be an improvement in the development and operation of the Early Childhood Education centres in the district.

Agaseata concluded that should his constituency put their trust in the party he has chosen, he will ensure that the party's recently-announced policy of directly providing $1 million to each constituency will be put to use by Aana Alofi No.3 to assist with much-needed projects.

Agaseata is a father of two children. He is married to Etevise Siaunuua Elia of Uafato Fagaloa and is from the villages of Leulumoega and Safotulafai Savai'i.