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The TRUTH about SAMOA
Objects of "The Mau."
Objects of "The Mau."
Many readers may not be quite clear as to the growth of the Mau which now dominates the situation in Samoa. Up to June, 1927, the Citizens' Committee consisted of both European and Samoan members; but, as related above, the Minister ordered the Europeans to cease from all activity with the Natives under threat of deportation without trial. This left the Samoans to themselves, and we were no longer able to offer them any advice or guidance. At that time every Native member was pledged to the following declaration:—
The advancement of Samoa and to present to the Administration and the Government of New Zealand from time to time subjects concerning the government of Western Samoa which may be considered by the members of the League essential for the promotion of the peace, order, good government and the general welfare of the Territory.
| 1. | We declare and believe that man's heritage from God is to help each other, irrespective of race, station, colour and creed, and that all men are equal in the sight of God. |
| 2. | We declare and believe that it is the privilege of a person living under the British flag, and especially the duty of a British subject, to assist the members of a subject race in advancement towards civilisation, good morals, and a Government of the People in accordance with the will of the People. |
| 3. | We declare and believe, that all Constitutional Authority shall be maintained and respect must be shown to all persons placed in authority from the Administrator to the village policeman. |
| 4. | That whilst maintaining authority and showing respect, we declare and believe that it is a privilege and a duty to Society and Government, of every person, to endeavour to procure by lawful means the alteration of any matter affecting the Laws, Government, or Constitution of the territory which may be considered prejudicial to the welfare and best interests of the people. |
Whether these objects and policy are still being adhered to I am unable to say personally, as I have had no contact with the Mau leaders since July last except under circumstances which I will refer to later. But it is clear now that at least one new plank appears in its objective, and that is a demand for Home Rule and self-government—"Samoa for the Samoans." A policy which was never advocated by the original movement, and which we had only heard preached by Sir George Richardson in Samoa.
After the blazing indiscretions of Mr. Nosworthy when he met the Citizens' Committee in June, and offended the noble High Chiefs present by offering the Samoans the same constitution for Samoa as existed in South-West Africa, at the same time refusing to recognise them as representatives of their people, the Mau spread with rapidity and intensity, until it embraced almost every Samoan except the Government's Faipules! Native officials and their families.