Two more women MPs appointed make up six in the House

Staff Reporters

APIA SAMOA – 29 NOVEMBER 2021: Two extra women parliamentarians have been appointed by the Head of State and now make up six women members of parliament following last weekends by elections results.

The warrant of appointment was issued this evening for the six constituencies that went to the polls last Friday, plus the two extra women members appointed under Article 44 of the constitution that requires 10% of women MPs must make up the composition of parliament after a general election.

Based on the highest percentage of votes gained, both the women MPs now appointed are members of the HRPP opposition party who ran second to the FAST male members who topped the polls in their respective constituencies.

Aliimalemanu Alofa Tuuau for Alataua West came in second to the now Minister of Education, Seuula Ioane in the 09 April general elections.

The other women member is Faagasealii Sapoa Feagiai who ran in second to the former Manu Samoa coach, Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua in the Aleipata Itupa i Lalo constituency.

After the 9 April general elections, 4 women were elected. Three are in the FAST government and include Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, the Minister of Finance Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo and the minister of Justice Matamua Vasati Pulufana. The fourth MP is the former HRPP Minister of Health, Faimalotoa Kika Ah Kau.

Following the confirmation of today’s final count of the by election results, the following have been deemed appointed as per the warrant signed by the Head of State.

1. Maulolo Tavita – Sagaga 2
2. Tagaloatele Pasi Poloa – Sagaga 4
3. Aiono Tile Gafa – Aana Alofi 2
4. Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell – Safata 2
5. Maiava Fuimaono Tito Asafo – Falealili 2
6. Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua – Aleipata Itupa i Lalo
7. Aliimalemanu Momoemausu Alofa Tuuau – Alataua i Sisifo
8. Faagasealii Sapoa Feagiai – Aleipata Itupa i Lalo.

The results bring the seats composition in parliament to FAST – 31; HRPP – 22.

Parliament is scheduled to meet on 14 December when the new MPs will be sworn in.

Some of the ballot boxes during todays final count