Fiame Mataafa Faumuina Mulinuu I vs Martin Torrijos

Fiame Mataafa Faumuina Mulinuu I became a paramount chief and leader of the Mau movement, which sought independence from New Zealand colonial rule. He organized non-violent resistance campaigns, including boycotts and petitions, to demand self-government for Samoa.

New Zealand authorities arrested Fiame Mataafa and other Mau leaders for sedition, exiling them to the island of Savai'i. This action aimed to suppress the independence movement but instead galvanized Samoan support for the Mau cause.

After his release, Fiame Mataafa negotiated with New Zealand for constitutional reforms that granted Samoans greater representation in the colonial government. The resulting constitution established a legislative council with Samoan members, a step toward self-rule.

Martin Torrijos, son of former military leader Omar Torrijos, won the 2004 presidential election as the candidate of the Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD). His victory marked the return of the PRD to power after a decade out of office.

Torrijos's presidency was marked by economic growth, social reforms, and the initiation of the canal expansion. He also pursued anti-corruption measures and improved relations with the United States. He left office with relatively high approval ratings.

Torrijos proposed and secured approval for a major expansion of the Panama Canal through a national referendum in 2006. The project aimed to build a third set of locks to accommodate larger ships, significantly increasing the canal's capacity and economic impact.