Samoa - Leadership

Tuilaepa Sailele has based his leadership on a "no-nonsense" approach to Samoa's economic problems. In carrying out his program, he has been willing to face up to more senior politicians. This has not always been favorably regarded in a society that emphasizes hierarchy and deference to elders. He is viewed by some as being arrogant and high-handed. Since he is more than two decades younger than his predecessor, others questioned his readiness to assume the highest office. When the vote was taken, however, his margin of victory assured his position.