The Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) caucus has reelected its leader and deputy leader to spearhead the party’s campaign for the next general elections.

Leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi and Deputy Leader Lauofo Fonotoe Pierre's re-election was announced on Monday following a caucus meeting held at the Petesa headquarters. 

Tuilaepa said the caucus has unanimously agreed to retain the leadership roles in the political party. 

Lauofo also spoke and urged members for their ongoing support for the party unity adding that by law the general election is next year but there might be changes. 

He continued the party would disclose its candidates for the election soon. 

Currently, the HRPP is the opposition and demands the seats of 18 Members of Parliament. The political party has strategically used social media platforms and regular media interviews and Letters to the Editor by its party leader to share its perspective on current issues and to refute accusations targeting the opposition. 

Following the 2021 General Election the party won 25 seats, however, post-election petitions, the resignation of three MPs and the death of another senior member drastically dropped the party number to 18. 

The three MPs who resigned from the party because of their discontent with Tuilaepa continuing to lead the party eventually had to return to the by-election and successfully regain their seats.  

Tuilaepa has continued to hold the leadership role for the party despite his brief suspension from Parliament in 2022 which was overturned by a court decision to reinstate him and his party secretary. 

The HRPP was established in 1979 and co-founded by Vaai Kolone and Tofilau Eti Alesana. The party has been in government for nine terms and it is their first time being the opposition party.