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Local Governance More Open, Says Maulolo.

Written by Pio Sioa
Thursday, 29 May 2008
Maulolo Leaula Tavita: Leading authority on the Samoan culture and head of the internal affairs division of the Ministry of Women and Community The controversial bestowal of the Malietoa title to be highlighted as an example of overlooking set protocols of transparency and accountability in local or traditional village governance. One of the leading authorities on the Samoan culture will this week draw public attention to how traditional protocols were overlooked in the controversial bestowal of the Malietoa paramount title last year. The head of the internal affairs division of the Ministry of Women and Community, Maulolo Leaula Tavita, intends to highlight the impact of the controversial investiture on transparency and accountability in local governance. Maulolo will be addressing a luncheon by the Institute of Directors on Friday, where the larger focus is on the form of governance, based on customs and traditions, practiced in the villages. Maulolo is a former lecturer on the Samoan culture at the National University of Samoa. He is also the leading figure in the “falaula’ movement, comprising prominent chiefs and orators in the country who undertake regular reviews of the changes in the culture. “Good governance is the heart of the ‘fa’asamoa’ (culture), transparency and accountability in the Samoan concept are pillars that play a critical part in the stability of Samoa,” Maulolo says. Village or local governments are made up of three distinct divisions, chiefs and orators, untitled men and the womenfolks, according to Maulolo. “In the sitting of the chiefs and orators, the ones accorded the respect of being served during the ava ceremony, are like members of the Cabinet. “All the other chiefs are recognised as members of Parliament, with the right to speak if they chose. “The untitled men can be offered the same privilege if it is called for, as well as the women folk. “ All issues are brought before the village and discussed in the open for everyone to hear and also to comment on.” When weighed against the western concept of good governance, Maulolo holds firmly to the belief that local governments are more open than the West Minister system the Central Government practiced. Maulolo is however concerned that while the local government concept continues to remain strong and steadfast, ad hoc decisions made without due regard to traditional protocol, threatens the stability of the system. “The failure by Tuamasaga (cultural district) to adhere to set protocols in the bestowal of the Malietoa title, is a classic example.” The dispute that has resulted in the controversy is now a matter before the Lands and Titles court to rule on. Comments (1) Subscribe to this comment's feed ... written by Siaki, June 03, 2008 Well said Mr. Maulolo to this controversial issue and I totally agreed with your point. I hope all the Malietoa families work ourt their differences and select the best qualitfy man or women to continue the Malietoa tradition mai Anamua. We must never forget our traditional system or we will loose a part of our history. FA'AFETAI MOLE AVANOA Write comment Name Email Title Comment

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The controversial bestowal of the Malietoa title to be highlighted as an example of overlooking set protocols of transparency and accountability in local or traditional village governance.