The Speaker of the House, Papalii Lio Masipau has urged parties and stakeholders to refrain from politicising his office for partisan purposes declaring his independence and neutrality. 

In a press statement issued on Monday afternoon, Speaker Papalii was particularly concerned about a letter to the editor published in the Sunday Observer questioning his integrity. 

The letter was penned by Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) Leader, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi alleging the Speaker is unable to conduct his work impartially. 

But Speaker Papalii has hit back claiming it was imperative that he addresses any misconceptions about his duties and conduct as the Speaker stressing he is fully aware of his Constitutional responsibilities and what is required of him to uphold the integrity of the House. 

“The assertion that I am unable to conduct the House's business independently and impartially is unfounded,” the Speaker writes.

“My actions and decisions as Speaker are guided solely by the Constitution and Standing Orders of Parliament, ensuring that all Parliamentary proceedings are carried out fairly and transparently.”

In regards to the suggestion of electing a new Speaker, Papalii pointed out it is a matter for Parliament under Clause 49 of the Constitution. 

“It is not dictated by the demands of any political party but by the established Parliamentary procedures,” he adds. 

“Parliament, in its sitting on 21 January 2025, resolved that the current political situation is not a matter for Parliamentary debate but an issue between Political Parties. 

“Therefore, the role of the Speaker remains independent of party conflicts and is focused solely on upholding Parliamentary democracy.”

Papalii also took the time to address concerns about his involvement in the fundraising events for the Fa’atuatua ile Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) Party. 

He said this must be viewed in the appropriate context.  

As a member of parliament, he stressed he was elected through the political party and his involvement in party matters was prior to assuming the Speaker's role and within his rights as a party member. 

However, upon assuming the role of Speaker, “I have remained committed to carrying out my duties with impartiality and fairness”. 

“The distinction between my political affiliation and my responsibilities as Speaker is one I have upheld diligently. 

 “The stability of Samoa's political landscape depends on the integrity of its public institutions, and I assure the people of Samoa that my role as Speaker is conducted with the highest standards of independence and neutrality.”

Speaker Papalii said the rule of law and democratic principles remain at the forefront of all parliamentary proceedings, and he will continue to ensure that Parliament operates in a manner that serves the best interest of the nation.

He urged all parties and stakeholders to respect the Constitutional processes that govern democracy and refrain from politicising the Office of the Speaker for partisan purposes.