Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa has firmly dismissed Opposition Leader Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi's challenge for her to step down, calling it a "desperate attempt to stir political drama."

In a statement issued to the public on Saturday, Fiame abundantly stated that "she will not resign."

The "Shadow Boxing" statement directly addressed Tuilaepa's challenge, criticising his approach. 

"If Tuilaepa truly believes in democracy and the Constitution, then he should bring this issue to Parliament instead of making noise in the media." 

Fiame reaffirmed her leadership position, asserting that she was elected to govern and will not step down simply because Tuilaepa demands it.

Her statement further pointed to the existing legal framework that governs no-confidence motions. 

"If he thinks he has the numbers, then let Parliament decide. If not, then he should stop wasting everyone’s time with his usual distractions. Tuilaepa, stop misleading the public and take your fight where it belongs—inside the walls of Parliament."

Tuilaepa put forth his challenge on Friday, publicly calling for Fiame’s resignation before Parliament reconvenes on Tuesday. 

He announced that the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) had formally submitted a request for a vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister and her Cabinet. The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Papali'i Lio Masipau, has granted the request, placing the motion as the first item on the agenda for the upcoming session.

A letter from the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, Satama Uitime Tala, dated 20 February 2025, officially acknowledged the motion’s submission. "The Speaker has acknowledged with respect the receipt of your letter dated 20 February 2025 regarding the Motion of No Confidence Against the Honorable Prime Minister," the letter stated. It also outlined procedural requirements, including the submission of five members who wish to speak on the motion, at least one hour before the sitting commences on 25 February.

Tuilaepa has accused the current government of operating "unlawfully" and violating Samoa's Constitution. 

He argues that Fiame no longer holds a parliamentary majority and should relinquish her position. Citing historical precedents, he referenced an instance in the 1980s when his administration fell due to an inability to pass the national budget.

Turning his focus back to Fiame, Tuilaepa issued a direct challenge. "Fiame should resign and step down before Tuesday," he declared. "We will not back down, so she needs to take action before Tuesday."

Despite uncertainty over whether the motion will succeed, Tuilaepa stressed the importance of holding the government accountable. "Whether or not the motion is passed, the important thing for us is to remind those in power that they cannot continue to govern effectively when they are in breach of the Constitution of Samoa."

As tensions rise, all eyes now turn to Parliament, where the political showdown will unfold in the coming days.