Caretaker Minister withdraws electoral challenge 

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 13 August 2025: One of the youngest candidates in the 29 August general elections, has been cleared to run after the challenge against his eligibility was withdrawn yesterday.

FAST candidate, Tagaloa Leilua Tupou Afa is challenging the caretaker Minister of Health, Luapitofanua Valasi Tafito for the Vaisigano 2 constituency.

The challenge was scheduled for hearing yesterday, however, Luapitofanua’s lawyer applied to withdraw the challenge.

Talamua understands the withdrawal came after a meeting between the village council and the candidates where the request to withdraw was made.

In the meantime, the challenge between caretaker Minister of Public Enterprises, Leatinuu Wayne Sooialo against the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) candidate Ulugia Elon Betham continues.

Both Luapitofanua and Leatinuu are competing under the Samoa Uniting Party (SUP) banner.