Speaker Issues the Opposition Leader a Final Warning

By Lagi Keresoma

APIA, SAMOA – 28 JUNE 2023: The Parliament Speaker, Papalii Li’o Ta’eu Masipa’u has issued a final warning to the Opposition leader Lauofo Pierre Lauofo for repeatedly speaking out of order.

Close to recess at 1.00 this afternoon, the Speaker noted that Lauofo had repeatedly taken the floor and spoke without acknowledging the Speaker.

On two occasions, the Speaker unsuccessfully intervened but Lauofo continued to respond to the Minister for Works, Infrastructure & Transport (MWIT) Olo Fiti Vaai on the safety of the Fagalii Airport.

“You have been warned many times on this,” said Papalii

He then called on Cabinet for a motion if they wished as Lauofo had breached the Standing Orders often.

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa took the floor and agreed with the Speaker on Lauofo’s attitude, however, she asked the Speaker to be patient.

Fiame also noted that as it was five minutes to recess and removing a member from chamber will only be for one day.

The Speaker conceded and then issued Lauofo a final warning.

Lauofo referred to the safety of the Fagali’i airport that resumed flights on Monday this week and pointed to the reference to a communications tower in the approach to the airport.

Olo clarified that the tower was built when the airport had been in operation, then closed and opened again but now it has been certified safe by the regional aviation authority.

He explained that he will take it up with the Minister of Telecommunications if the tower needs to be lowered or relocated.

But Lauofo insisted on the airport’s safety that led to the Minister of Agriculture to take the floor and pointed out that pilots are well trained and wouldn’t deliberately fly into a tower if they see one.

The Minister of Communications reiterated that the safety aspect for airline pilots is very high as they are well trained in their field.

When Lauofo took the floor again without addressing the Speaker, it was when the Speaker asked for a motion and then gave the Member a final warning.

Parliament resumes Thursday morning with the Minister of Education addressing the issues raised by members on the 2023/2024 Budget.