Earlier in the week I blogged about the Samoan government's plans to review freedom of religion. Last night, I finally found a report in the Samoa Observer which made it very clear what the government's problem is:
With most of the cases brought before the Court in the past, it ruled in favour of the freedom of religion, and with the authority of the indigenous Government found wanting.Courts upholding people's fundamental (and in Samoa, constitutional) rights! Quelle horreur!
The Observer article also has the inquiry's membership:
The Commission is chaired by Ombudsman, Maiava Iulai Toma.So of 11 members, at least 5 are religious leaders (Dr Salevao is the secretary of the Fijian Congregational Church). Talk about setting the fox to guard the henhouse.The members are Dr Iutisone Salevao, Father Spatz Silva, Reverend Vaiao Eteuati, Te’o Eteuati, Leva’a Sauaso, Pastor Uili Solofa, Papali’i Alema Fitisemanu, Pastor Viliamu Mafo’e, Arthur Lesa – Counsel Assisting, Office of the Attorney General and Peter Bednall – Counsel Assisting, Office of the Attorney General.
