HOS Calls on Samoa to Move Forward Together & Not by Differences

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 01 June 2025 – The Head of State, Tuimalealiifano Va’aleto’a Sualauvi 11 has called on Samoa to move forward together as a nation and not by differences.

The call was made at Samoa’s 63rd independence celebration today.

As Samoa reflects on her journey of 63 years,  he urged  the people not to forget the blessings they share as a people and a nation rooted in faith, love, families and values.

“Let us move forward as a nation in faith, peace and not by difference but in the spirit of unity, peace, respect for one another, humility and compassion, let us rise above the issues together,” he said.

“We are stronger when united, but strongest in God,” Tuimalealiifano.

Member of the Council of Deputies Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi raising the flag of Samoa.

This year’s celebration is held against the backdrop of a political crisis after the defeat of the minority government’s budget last Tuesday, the call by the Hea of State to dissolve parliament Tuesday 3 June and for te country to go to an early general election.

However, there are more questions when the caretaker PM and her 14 cabinet ministers confirm their resignation from the political party they entered parliament that should result in them losing seats and going back to by elections.

Moreover, the caretaker government has split into several factions with the PM and the Deputy PM registering their respective political parties to contest the upcoming elections.

This mornings’ celebration was conducted in-front of the Government Building at Matagialalua.

The Head of State acknowledged the grace of God to whom gratitude is worthy for his enduring love, guide and leading Samoa to today’s celebration.

“In contemplating the unfolding of time, challenges and trials that define our national story in history over the past 63 years, we remember the abundant love of our forefathers who laid the foundation of our sovereignty,” he said.

The Australian High Commissioner Will Robinson leading his office march at this mornings celebration.

He reminded Samoa that through our forefathers’ efforts, the same foundation guided us today to protect and preserve our identity and legacy through generations, empowering the people and nation to govern and shape the course of our journey.

He said Samoa has faced challenges as an enduring truth of life,  yet in the face of time of adversity, he is reminded of the psalmist that said, “blessed is the nation whose God  is the Lord.”

He said with conviction and pride, Samoa’s is blessed as and through trials and tribulations, and foundation in God is her strength as an independent state.

“It reaffirms our steadfast faith that God is the heart of our life and we shall be blessed as a nation that has no force in the world, no scheme to divide or disrupt us.

“Even the deepest divide can be bridged and every adversity can be overcome, as we press forward in unity and peace,” said Tuimalealiifano.

Avele College.

He acknowledged the church leaders, American Samoa Governor, Ulu o Tokelau, the Government, Parliament, Judiciary, Ministries for the pivotal roles they play in upholding peace and unity especially in times of uncertainty.

He acknowledged the Judiciary for their tireless effort in guiding the nation forward and their leadership and commitments in upholding the law and justice for all.

He also acknowledged Samoa’s diplomatic partners  and Non-Government Organisations, the business community, and schools who attended today’s parade.

The former Head of State/ Prime Minister and currently Member of the Council of Deputies Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi raised the flag and followed by a colourful march pass from various Ministries, corporations, schools and community.