A member of the Samoa Fa’afafine (Transvestite) Association (SFA) says they do not support gay marriage.
“People always assume us to be that and this and I’m sure they (people) already thought we are celebrating together with the New Zealand gay community, when we are not,” said Tania Pulotu.
So’oalo Roger Stanley, Samoa Fa’afafine Association (SFA) President said “Our culture and traditions will not allow it.”
Neither would the Christian values that are held strongly in the country, said So’oalo.
Gay marriage has become a topic of discussion here especially the closeness of New Zealand and Samoa and that couples may fly over to get married then return home.
SFA doesn’t support such marriages.
The Prime Minister of Samoa Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi is the patron of the SFA. When the issue became a topic of debate in New Zealand last year, he wouldn’t allow same gender marriage as long as he is Prime Minister.
“Just because gay marriage is popular overseas does not mean we have to adopt it too,” said Tuilaepa.
“We pass laws that are best for our country, our people and are in line with our values,” he said.
“Gay marriage is never going to happen as long as I’m around.”