Posted on 22 April 2024
In a significant move, the Restoring Citizenship Removed By Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982 Bill aims to restore entitlement to New Zealand citizenship for people born in Samoa between 1924 and 1949. For Samoan community leader Reverend Aneterea Sa’u, this legislation is not about money; it’s about trust and fairness. Sa’u, who was part of the Samoan community contingent in Parliament, emphasized that the elders still alive—around 5000 individuals—deserve the opportunity to become New Zealand citizens. The bill’s passage during its first reading marks a step toward rectifying a cruel and targeted law from the past, and Sa’u encourages the Samoan community to engage with their local MPs to support the bill as it progresses through the legislative process.
The bill garnered unexpected support from parties such as ACT and New Zealand First, while the coalition partner National opposed it. New Zealand First MP Casey Costello highlighted the contributions of the Samoan community to Aotearoa, emphasizing the importance of considering the bill. Meanwhile, National MP Cameron Brewer expressed concerns about setting a problematic legal precedent. Despite differing opinions, the bill’s passage reflects a commitment to justice and fairness, recognizing the significant contributions Samoans have made to New Zealand.
Source: RNZ
Photo: Sally Sitou / AusAID via Wikimedia