Authorities in Samoa have charged an author with the murder of another well-known Samoan writer. The victim was also the aunt of former U.S. congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.
According to The Associated Press, Papalii Sia Figiel, a well-known figure in the Pacific literary community, has been accused of killing Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard, a prominent member of the same community, following an argument last month. Sinavaiana-Gabbard’s family is involved in U.S. politics, adding to the significance of the tragic event.
Related posts
According to the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Sinavaiana-Gabbard was an environmentalist and poet who made history as the first person of Samoan descent to achieve the rank of full professor at a university in the United States. She dedicated over two decades of her life to teaching at the University of Hawaii and retired in 2016.
According to Tiai-Keti, the individual who the victim initially confided in about the incident was a family member who accompanied her.
At present, the cause of death for Sinavaiana-Gabbard remains unconfirmed by officials. However, a forensic pathologist is set to arrive from Fiji to Apia, which is situated on Samoa’s second-largest island, Upolu. The autopsy is scheduled to take place later this month.
As a child staying at her aunt’s cottage in Manoa, Tulsi Gabbard, a former U.S. congresswoman from Hawaii, was inspired by her aunt who frequently shared her poetry with her and encouraged her to pursue writing. Gabbard took this advice to heart and has since become an accomplished writer herself. She recently took to social media to express her gratitude for her aunt’s guidance and support during her formative years.
Gabbard expressed that her family was deeply shaken by the “horrific” passing of Sinavaiana-Gabbard, and the news had a profound impact on them.
Gabbard expressed her belief in making the most of the precious time we have in life. “Hold the ones dear to you and cherish every day,” she wrote. Despite her renouncement of the Democratic party in 2022, Gabbard recently made headlines by stating that she would be honored to serve as Republican Donald Trump’s running mate in the upcoming November presidential election.
He expressed that her influence motivated him to contribute to society and not just focus on personal happiness. “Life isn’t solely about pursuing personal happiness, but it’s also about serving others and serving God,” he added.
According to Professor John David Zuern from the University of Hawaii, Sinavaiana-Gabbard was instrumental in driving the Department of English towards a more comprehensive involvement with Pacific literatures. He stated in written remarks to AP that her exceptional work with students also garnered her recognition from the university.
