Book review : Palemia : a memoir

Abstract

A memoir offer readers a window into someone’s life. It provides an informative snapshot and knowledge about a subject. Simultaneously, it can also attract reactions, at times misguided when given out of context or when one does not possess a degree of familiarity and intimacy with the subject. Outsiders are often accused of this, particularly in cultural spaces where open and critical debate are not encouraged. However, an outsider’s view is just as relevant, so long as it is considered and delivered with an openness and respect towards mutual learning and understanding. Reviews offer this opportunity and, in this particular case, to learn about and engage with story of a visionary statesman and an exemplary Pacific leader, Tuila’epa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, Pālemia or Prime Minister of Samoa, who has penned his memoir with Peter Swain, a long time Pacific development specialist. Samoa is the first Pacific nation to gain political independence (as Western Samoa, in 1962). It has population of approximately 197,000 and has about the same number in the diaspora. Tuila’epa was elected to office in 1998 and is the longest serving Prime Minister of Samoa. In his foreword to the book, Tuila’epa is very clear about the intentions behind the volume: the memoir is “a simple political story”, closely connected to the development and success of party politics and that of the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) against the backdrop of a society navigating the realities of culture and modernity. [excerpt from the review]