APIA – The opposition party, Tautua Samoa has officially announced its manifesto and 26 candidates for next month’s general election.

Tautua leader, Palusalue Faapo II, gave the keynote address emphasising the need for a change of Government.

He made reference to the caretaker government’s Human Rights Protection Party’s (HRPP) million dollar debt with international banks and the impact of the debt on the people.

“Woe to the people of Samoa if HRPP returns,” said Palusalue.

He also explained Tautua’s plan for Samoa for the next five years before calling on Samoa to vote for changes and a prosperous future.

Congregational Christian Church Reverend Kasiano Leaupepe opned the occasion with a service and challenged Tautua not to be afraid and to continue praying.

“Fast if you must –but never fail to pray,” said Rev Leaupepe.

The supporters were given the opportunity to ask questions to which Tautua Samoa shadow Minister for finance Afualo Dr Wood Salele responded to.

One supporter suggested to Palusalue to challenge Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi to a public debate.

Tautua Samoa highlighted four key issues with which the party sees relevant and a must for the development of the people and the country.

They are equal opportunities and skills for all, rule of law and pursuit of justice, equal distribution of wealth and environmental sustainability.

Education and health are the two key components of the equality opportunity issue, which includes the establishment of a Samoa National Education Fund (SNEF) to help parents with the children’s school fees.

Also in the pipeline for education is the increase salary package offer to teachers.

On the health side, a medi-care concept and a medical insurance will be introduced for all.

On rule of law, Tautua is looking at establishing a anti-corruption body to monitor and discipline all Samoans.

Tautua Samoa will travel to Savaii on Thursday to conduct a similar launching for their supporters in Savaii. - Talamua

Gifts to Captain Cook returned to Hawai'i

WELLINGTON – A priceless feather cloak and helmet gifted to Captain Cook in 1779 are being returned to Hawai‘i by New Zealand’s National Museum, Te Papa.

A ceremony at Te Papa next month will welcome the Hawaiian delegation which will uplift the taonga.

The ’ahu’ula (cloak) and mahiole (helmet) were a gift from the Hawaiian chief Kalani’opu’u to Captain Cook when he stopped in Hawai‘i on his third and fatal voyage of the Pacific, and have been in Te Papa’s collection since being gifted to the national museum in 1912.

The cloak and helmet will go on display in the Bishop Museum in Hawai‘i from 19th March.