Privileges Committee to Investigate the Complaint Against HRPP Leaders

By Lagi Keresoma

APIA, SAMOA – 05 MAY 2022: Parliament has appointed 9 members to its Privileges and Ethics Committee to investigate a complaint by the Deputy Prime Minister, Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio against the Opposition leader, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi and Member of Parliament Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi.

The Speaker received Tuala’s written complaint on 28 April 2022 raising a matter of privilege and gave the two MPs until 4.00pm Monday 02 May to submit their written responses.

In Parliament yesterday, the Speaker ruled that there was an issue of privilege and ethics that warranted the Privileges Committee to investigate and report back in the next Parliament session on 17 May 2022.

He then announced the Committee to be chaired by the Minister of Health, Valasi Luapitofanua To’omaga Tafito Selesele.

Members include four Opposition MPs including Lautafi Fio Purcell to represent the HRPP Leader, Tu’u’u Anasi’i Leota, Faimalotoa Kika Ah Kau and Ale Vena Ale.

Four Government MPs are Seuamuli Fasi Toma, Magele Sekati Fiaui, Masinalupe Makesi Masinalupe and Agaseata Valelio Peto.

Parliament then endorsed the composition of the Committee and to table before Parliament the Letter of Complaint and the responses from the accused on a motion by the Deputy Speaker, Auapaau Mulipola Aloitafua.