Former member of parliament Tuisugaletauā Sofara Aveau passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening at the hospital after a battle with cancer.

He passed at the age of 71. 

The late Tuisugaletaua was a member of the Human Rights Protection Party and also a Cabinet Minister when he was in the House.

He represented Vaimauga No.1 as their MP. 

Aveau was also a musician according to family members and loved ones. He entered the Samoan Legislative Assembly in 2001 he was the Minister of Agriculture. After reelection in 2006, he was Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure.

In his capacity as Minister of Works, he led the government's initiative to switch from left-hand drive vehicles to right-hand drive.

One of Tuisugaletaua Sofara Aveau's prominent work is his involvement in agriculture and fisheries development in Samoa during his time as Minister of Agriculture from 2001 to 2006. He played a key role in promoting sustainable farming practices, supporting local farmers, and improving food security in the country. 

Aveau was actively involved in initiatives to protect Samoa's forests and marine resources.