Speaker continues in office after Parliament dissolves without fanfare

Apia, Samoa – 03 June 2025 – Samoa’s 17^th Parliament dissolved without fanfare today, the day designated by the Head of States in a public declaration last week.

However, the Speaker has clarified that he and the Deputy Speaker continue in their offices until the next Parliament meets.

A statement from the Office of the Speaker today, said that the appointment of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker shall not be suspended or terminated on the dissolution of the Legislative Assembly.
“They shall continue until the next Parliament is convened or until a new Speaker is appointed.”

The Speaker and his Deputy had been challenged by the last government with an unprecedented motion of no confidence moved against the Speaker that was rejected and resulted in the majority of Cabinet and some Opposition MPs leaving the chambers in protest.

After that session, Parliament dispersed with a negative ambience and deepened the political crisis. Parliament met for the last time 27 May for the budget session where the government fell after its’ budget was defeated by a 16-34 vote.

Since then, the caretaker government had made public pronouncements inferring the continuation of the Speakers and his Deputy when parliament is dissolved.

“These public pronouncements serve to unnecessarily undermine the role of these posts and the continuation of the need and tenure of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.”

In his statement, the Speaker said it is essential to clarify the uncertainty of the Head of the caretaker government for the benefit of the nation.

• The Speakers duties during this time are not limited to the ordinary sessions or rendered ineffective. The legal provisions governing the Speaker’s regular duties remain unchanged and clearly defined.
• The Speaker shall continue to carry out its legal duties, including safeguarding the integrity of Parliament, ensuring the proper conduct of its proceedings and overseeing preparations for the convening of the next Parliament.
• This position is not “free ride”, but rather a Constitutional post with specific duties and delegations with recognition of the independence inherent n every stage of Parliamentary procedure.

Speaker Papalii Lio Oloipola Taeu Masipau said that the Speaker also has regional and overseas obligations as Chairperson of the Samoa Parliamentary branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

“This role carries leadership responsibilities that must continue to be fulfilled in the context of international parliamentary relations and engagements,” said the Speaker.