Samoa’s 64th anniversary of independence celebration was the first under Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt and his government, and it did not fail in the spectacular and colorful festivities which started with the raising of the flag of freedom by council of deputies member Malietoa Moli II Malietoa, early Monday morning.
The traditional speech was delivered by Head of State Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, who urged the country to move forward and preserve the day, for it is a day that should be proclaimed loudly and filled with gratitude and praise to God.
The traditional ceremonial march of honor soon followed with a parade of hundreds of primary school and college students, non-government organizations, and committees led by the police guard of honor and band.
The staff of government ministries and corporations also joined the parade along with a large contingent of FAST supporters from overseas and across the country.
More festivities continued with traditional song and dance performances from invited districts across the country.
The highlight was the first of two fautasi races. The one on Monday was for fautasi using traditional oars and had six entries. The Telefoni ole Vainuu from Manono won. The race for fautasi using spoon shaped oars is set for Wednesday.
A star studded concert headlined by Faanana Jerome Gray ended the public festivities in the evening.
In Samoa for the Independence Celebration are Lt. Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr., Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean, House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale, Reps. Ape Mike Asifoa, Luaitaua Gene Pan, Tiaoalii Fauagiga Sai, Manavaalofa Tutuila Manase, Fiu Johnny Saelua, Trude Ledoux Sunia, Malaeoletalu Melesio Gurr, and Manumaua Wayne Wilson.
The Governor’s Special Envoy, Lealaisalanoa Ricky and ASTCA CEO Folasaitu Sorepa Thomas, are also part of the American Samoa delegation along with staff of ASTCA and the Governor’s Office.
As we reported Friday, American Samoa performed a taalolo for the opening of Parliament offices on Saturday during which a total of $87,000 was presented. Senator Olo Uluao Letuli and then-Commissioner of Public Safety Taaga Saite Moliga were the orators for the taalolo.
Photos: Savali/Samoa Global News/Talamua Media
