A planned Fa’atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) Party roadshow to American Samoa has been called off, citing public health concerns over the ongoing dengue fever outbreak.
The decision was confirmed by FAST leader and chairman, Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt, during a thanksgiving service last Saturday marking the conclusion of the party’s five-week roadshow across Upolu and Savai’i.
“Due to the dengue fever outbreak and other reasons, we have decided that the safest option is to protect ourselves not only from this illness but also from other possible risks,” said La’aulialemalietoa
He added that once Samoa’s general election is completed they will reschedule for another time in the future.
He stressed that the decision was made out of caution and responsibility, prioritizing the well-being of FAST members and supporters in American Samoa. Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness, has triggered health warnings in the territory, raising concerns about mass gatherings.
The American Samoa roadshow was to be the final highlight of FAST’s outreach efforts ahead of the August 29 general election.
The event was expected to draw strong support from Samoan families across the territory, many of whom maintain close ties to Samoa’s political landscape and are influential in providing both financial and moral backing to parties.
Samoan artist Teramo Atonio, popularly known as Mr. Tee, who had been scheduled to perform, expressed disappointment at the cancellation but said he understood the committee’s decision.
Party officials emphasized their commitment to engaging with Samoans overseas, acknowledging the significant contributions of the diaspora to the party’s growth and success.
While the cancellation has disappointed many supporters in American Samoa, FAST confirmed that the party will visit after the general election once conditions allow.
