Malo Submits A Programme

New Force In Western Samoa Politics

From Our Own Correspondent

Apia, Nov. 28.

THE “New Mau” party the correct title of which is the Malo, or pro- Government party—has submitted to the Acting - Administrator a “programme” containing 22 points. This explains the growth of the Malo, and the objects for which it strives.

It opposes Mau against the largest district of Western Samoa.

Vaimauga East, as shown in the distri bution of Faipu'e.

It objects to participation of Euro peans of mixed descent in native politics.

It opposes the levy of taxes by the Mau for the Mau.

It protests against the maintenance of Mau organisation solely for interference in the constitutional government, and for obstructing peace and harmony amongst the Samoans.

It opposes the replacement of Land and Title Commissioners by inexperienced highly-paid Samoan judges.

It objects to control of Government ap pointments by the Mau; to the existence of a Mau police alongside the Govern ment police; and to the activities of Mau officials who dictate to the Faipule.

It objects to the abuse of the Tumua authority (abolished by the German Gov ernor, Dr. Solf as highly detrimental to Samoa) being revived again by the Mau; and to Samoan self-government, without European participation, for which Samo ans are not yet ready or educated.

It objects to a Mau monopoly of Legislative Councillors and native judges: and to interference by the Mau Vaimoso office, in making representations

on behalf of' Samoans which should be made solely by the Faipule.

The Malo wishes to retain the present heads of departments (especially Police, Public Works, Customs and Banana Scheme) in recognition of their efficient work, while the Mau has asked for the retirement of present high officials.

The Malo asks for the reinstatement of Hon. Malietoa as Legislative Coun cillor, and opposed the appointment of Native Judges in the High Court.

Newspaper Controversy

The publication of the foregoing brought forth a lively reply, and defence, from the Mau officials; and the argument has been going on ever since.

The appearance of the Malo, in such marked and growing strength, has caused perturbation in the Mau—which, having been formally recognised by the N.Z.

Government and the “Goodwill Mission,” thought it was going to control the fut ure administration of Samoa. But it used its strength arrogantly and insolently— with the inevitable result that most of the responsible elements among the Samoans, the Europeans and the local born have become anti-Mau.

A Mau delegation is going to New Zea land; but the N.Z. Government will not be allowed to forget that a very strong and well-organised Malo now is in exis tence in Samoa, and that the rights of minorities must be respected in future.

Right Rev. S. Davies, Bishop of Car

pentaria, departed from Sydney *or

Thursday Island by the Merkur on December 8.