Order for the Land. Interview with a Government Official

Greetings everyone, This week I am joined by Misa Smith, the government official that has made his voice heard in the case of involving the banishing of two families from Chief Asuao Tanumafili’s village. As I mentioned last week, Samoan Law states that everyone is entitled to freedom of practice. Mr. Smith was responsible for getting the two families back into the village and is here to share his side of this case. Thank you for joining us Misa.

Misa: it’s a pleasure to be here.

Elaine: so tell me, did you read about my interview with Chief Asuao last week?

Misa: yes I did.

Elaine: what did you think about it?

Misa: well I have to say that I disagree with his view on religion and the authority that he actually has. Yes he does have power within his village, however that does not mean that he does not have to follow federal law. It is like saying a company owner can mistreat his workers because it is his company. The government would step in to ensure that the workers are being taken care of. In short, Chief Asuao does cannot tell people what religion to practice.

Elaine: So do you feel that the government’s power is more important than that of the Chief and the Matai system?

Misa: I understand that the chief and the matai system have been in charge of what goes on in villages for a very long time, however the government is now in power it is the government’s job to ensure that the country is run properly. The chief should be willing to accept change just like everyone else in the country. With the government, there are a lot of benefits that will benefit everyone in Samoa. The government can provide support to villages and commerce can improve as the island becomes more globalized. If anything the Chief should be supporting the government because the government can provide a better lifestyle for the Samoa people. Chief Asuao knows this is true and that is why he allowed the villagers to return. I actually have to get going but if you have anymore questions please contact my office.

Elaine: Thank you I really appreciate you coming. Next week we will actually the father of one of the families that were kicked out of Chief Asuao’s Village.