Speaker Papalii Lio Masipau once again rejected a proposed motion from the cabinet to remove him and his deputy Auapaau Mulipola Aloitafua. 

Growing tension in parliament in the past week saw the Prime Minister and cabinet continuously flagging conflict of interest from the Speaker and his deputy in wearing two hats when convenient; as party members and chairing the House. 

In the latest proposed motion from Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure Olo Fiti Vaai and Minister of Justice Courts and Administration Matamua Vasati Pulufana, the cabinet raised concerns over the actions of the Speaker setting a dangerous precedent alleging his impartiality and conflict of interest. 

In response to the cabinet’s second motion to remove him, Speaker Papalii denied the accusations. 

Papalii said the letter from Faatuatua ile Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) that he signed to remove the PM and others was an internal party matter. 

He added he did not sign the motion from Gagaifomauga No.3, Laauli Leuatea Schmidt.

He also rejected the second motion because the removal of the Speaker is not provided for under the Constitution.

The Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) had also submitted a petition signed by all opposition members except two members to the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly of their intention to support the motion from the cabinet. 

HRPP said their support of the cabinet’s motion is because they confirm the Speaker is biased and is conflicted regarding the current session. 

Furthermore, the Opposition noted that the Speaker had a verbal disagreement with the Prime Minister and undermined the integrity of parliament.

 Sixteen HRPP members signed the petition while 15 cabinet ministers signed their letter seeking to remove the Speaker.