Restless Samoan Mau

Signs of Discontent Where N.Z. Says There is Only Peace

From Our Own Correspondent

APIA, Sept. 29.

A CCORDING to reports published in New Zealand newspapers, everything in Samoa is very quiet: and Europeans and Samoans are supposed to have “settled down” as the result of the “Goodwill Mis sion.”

This peace, however, is only superficial.

There are now apparent very strong undercurrents of dissatisfaction and opposition which, at any time, may cause trouble.

The elections of the new Faipule (or representatives of the Samoan natives) in the Samoan Fono Faipule (Parliament) have taken place in the various districts.

A certain number of the old Faipule, who belonged to the former “loyal” faction of the Samoans, have been re-elected, but the majority of the new Faipule belong to the Mau.

The “loyal” faction, which is now in op position to the Mau, is not satisfied, and is demanding a larger representation. The “loyal” village of Lauli’i, to the east of Apia, takes a strong attitude against the Mau, and against the Mau leader, Mr.

Nelson; and, according to reports, threats have been made against Mr. Nelson’s life, so that his residence is being guarded by Mau police.

The Mau, on the other hand, blames a Samoan Chief, I’iga, who is employed by the Native Department of the Administra tion, for causing all the trouble and stir ring up the Lauli’i people against the Mau.

The Mau leader Faumuina Fiame (who has been appointed senior sergeant of the Native Police, and starts in this new position on October 1) has demanded the dismissal of I’iga from the service.

It is an extraordinary thing, to see the previous position reversed —namely, the Malo (or loyalists) in opposition, and the Mau supporting the Government.

The Mau is not sitting quiet, however — it seems to be asserting its strength in several directions. It is reported to be attempting to interfere with the banana inspection and export organisation, which is now working very smoothly and profit ably.

At the bottom of it all probably is merely a desire to test newly-won strength. The Mau leader, Mr. Nelson, remains an un known quantity. He has kept very quiet and has not disclosed his hand in any way.

In the circumstances, the opening of the new Fono of Faipule, which is to take place on September 30, is anticipated with in terest.

Among the local-born, of mixed descent, there is dissatisfaction with the planned settlement of young unmarried men. Some of the local-born are asking for the settle ment of married men with large families, instead.

As reported previously, the European planters are in strong opposition to the threatened repatriation of Chinese and Melanesian plantation labourers by the N.Z. Government, and have forwarded strong protests against this measure to New Zealand. They are supported in their attitude by practically the whole of the population.