Minister Says Lakapi Samoa Should Stay Away From Politics
Minister of Agriculture, La'aulialemalietoa Polataivao Schmidt
Photo: Supplied
Samoa's Minister of Agriculture, La'aulialemalietoa Polataivao Schmidt, has labeled Samoa's rugby governing body Lakapi Samoa and its endeavors as a failure due to the affiliation of its officials with political parties.
The Minister made this statement during his appearance on TV2's Soalepule program on the 23rd of November last Tuesday evening.
La'auli was asked how the government views politicians and Lakapi Samoa having connections. He conveyed when he was questioned by the program's host, Tapuala Levasa Oloapu, that Lakapi Samoa and the game of rugby union are heading for disaster because of the organization's connection with politics. "They should put a stop to this now," he said. "This is the reason why we're not seeing any growth of the sport here in Samoa.
"The Minister also added that he remembers back when he together with matais of his Constituency gave an amount of $500,00 tala to assist Lakapi Samoa in efforts to help better develop rugby in Samoa. "We gave them the money, and in return we did not even receive a ticket to any game, jersey or any show of gratitude from Lakapi Samoa then,"La'auli urged Lakapi Samoa to follow the example of Toa Samoa and their recent success at the Rugby League World Cup last week.
"I commend the work of Rugby League Samoa and its Chairman, Tagaloa Fa'afouina Su'a, and also to our Toa Samoa who've shook the world and made Samoa proud. They're not involved with politics and that is why I believe success has gone their way," he said.