Independent Election Candidates Launch Manifesto

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 14 August 2025: The Independent candidates for the upcoming general election came together under the banner Independent Together yesterday to launch a manifesto.

At the outset of the launch, the Independent Together Chairman, Leiataualesa Jerry Brunt said they are not a political party, but a group of independent candidates who wish to be the voice of their respective districts.

“Their main goal is is to support the voice of independents in the Parliament of Samoa as the voice of our constituencies in Parliament. It is our goal that all voices are heard. Our group’s stance is to work together to encourage and support one another, but for every independent to speak for his/her constituency.”

Independent Together have similar goals with other political parties such as:

• Empower every Samoan
• Equal access to opportunities
• A Government for every Samoan
• Members of Parliament as public servants

Leiataualesa was adamant that their group will remain independent, however when asked about the possibility of independents moving to support other parties depending on the outcome of the election, he said that is the right of every candidate.

But should they find themselves in the position as the kingmaker he said they would never support an opposition party.

“But if that happens, we will go in with conditions and even demand a review of that party’s manifesto so we could include ours.”

The independents claim to have 44 candidates, event though 15 attended yesterdays launch.

Of the main political parties, FAST has the highest number of candidates with 60 seats, followed by HRPP, SUP and Labour contesting the 51 seats in Samoa’s parliament.