By Lagi Keresoma.
APIA, SAMOA – 07 MARCH 2024: The new Member of Parliament for the electoral constituency of Vaimauga No 3, Lautimuia Uelese Vaai was sworn-in this morning by the Parliament Speaker, Papalii Li’o Taeau Masipa’u.
Lautimuia won the constituency’s by-election last Friday by 1531 votes against the Human Rights Protection Party candidate Samau Leatigagaeono Timanu who received 1082 and Independent candidate Feagaimalii Bruce To’omalatai Utaileuo with 106 votes.
Lautimua replaces the constituency’s late MP, Tapunu’u Papalii Niko Lee Hang who passed away last November.
The Speaker congratulated Lautimuia and the opposition leader Lauofo Fonotoe Pierre Lauofo.
Outside Parliament, Lautimuia was swarmed by members of his constituency and family who turned up to congratulate him.
“I am humbled by the support of the constituency and family and I acknowledge their presence here today. Praise be to God,” Lautimuia told the media.
Lautimua is a former Chief Executive Officer of the Samoa Shipping Services.
