The New Zealand Samoa Citizenship Bill: A Historic Step Forward

The New Zealand Samoa Citizenship Bill has officially passed in Parliament, creating a pathway for Samoans born between 1924 and 1948 to reclaim what they lost. The bill, which passed unanimously on November 20, 2024, seeks to redress the impact of the Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982, which revoked the rights of many Samoans to New Zealand citizenship.

A Limited Scope

While the passing of the bill has been hailed as “historic” and celebrated by many in the Samoan community, for others, its exclusion of descendants of those Samoans who are eligible for citizenship has ignited fierce debate. Under the new law, only those born within the specified time frame are eligible, leaving children and grandchildren of these individuals without access to citizenship.

Celebrations Amid Controversy

Despite the controversy surrounding the bill’s limited scope, many are celebrating its passage. Samoa’s former Head of State Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and his wife, Filifilia, are among those eligible for citizenship. Filifilia expressed gratitude, saying “Fa’afetai i le Atua” (Thank you, Lord). Pa’u Roy Ausage, a community advocate, shared that the bill offers new opportunities for his father, now 82, to travel freely.

A Bittersweet Moment

For others, however, the moment is bittersweet. Ruth Seryner Aliitasi Oloapu, whose 89-year-old father is eligible, pointed out the challenges of caring for elderly parents left behind in Samoa without their descendants’ support. “Who will look after our aging parents if they move to New Zealand? It’s an extra burden for families like mine,” she said.

Efforts to Restore Citizenship Rights

Efforts to restore citizenship rights have spanned decades. In 2003, former National MP Anae Arthur Anae led protests after calls flooded his talkback show on Radio 531pi. Last week, Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro granted Royal Assent to the Citizenship Amendment Bill, officially making it law.

A Long Road Ahead

According to reports, over 300 applications were lodged in the first week alone. However, for many, the bill remains a step forward, not a resolution. Samoa’s former Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi echoed these concerns, calling the bill insufficient. “It’s not good enough,” he said. “We will continue to fight until all requirements are met.”

A New Chapter

Despite the controversy and limitations of the bill, its passage marks a significant step forward for Samoans seeking citizenship in New Zealand. As the country moves forward, it remains to be seen how this legislation will shape the lives of those eligible. One thing is certain, however: for many, this is a moment to celebrate and a new chapter to begin.

In conclusion, the New Zealand Samoa Citizenship Bill represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to restore citizenship rights to Samoans who were affected by the 1982 act. While controversy surrounding its limited scope remains, the bill’s passage marks an important step forward for many individuals and families. As New Zealand continues to navigate this complex issue, it is clear that there will be both triumphs and challenges along the way.