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Samoa PM Addresses Parliament Amid Political Turmoil
Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai, RNZ Pacific Journalist
The first day of the first sitting of Samoa's parliament for 2025 has ended with the prime minister saying if a vote of no confidence is tabled against her, she will advise the head of state to dissolve parliament.
The past few weeks have seen a political storm with sackings and rife social media speculation.
On the floor of parliament this morning, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa began her introductory speech highlighting the government's commitment to addressing national priorities.
She then said if a vote of no confidence is tabled against her, she will advise the head of state to dissolve parliament and call a snap election.
Earlier, the Speaker of the House, Papali'i Li'o Taeu Masipau urged the importance of loyalty and service to Samoa.
Masipau said decisions regarding the potential vacancy of parliamentary seats do not fall within his jurisdiction.
"To make it clear, I, the Speaker of the House, in my view, believe this is not a topic to discuss at this time. There is no peace that comes from it for our Parliament," he said.
The Speaker further noted that internal issues within the caucus should be resolved by the caucus itself.
"This Parliament is not for a caucus but for the country."
Then former prime minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielagaoi stood up and thanked the speaker of the house.
Tuilaepa said he supports Fiame's decision.
Parliament will meet again tomorrow from 9.30am.
How things unfolded
Three days into January, the chairman of the ruling FAST party and Samoa's Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries La'auli Leuatea Schmidt confirmed he was facing criminal charges.
These include three counts of conspiracy or attempt to defeat or pervert the course of justice, and three counts of false statements causing harm to a person's reputation.
On 10 January, prime minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa removed La'auli's ministerial portfolio, and went on to remove three of her Cabinet ministers.
But La'auli remains chair of the FAST Party, and last week announced the removal of the prime minister and five Cabinet ministers from the ruling party.
This was reportedly challenged by the removed members.
Late last week, Fiame removed 13 of her associate ministers.
These events have caused division not only within Samoa but also among diaspora communities.
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