Samoa’s Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, has successfully defeated a no-confidence motion against her minority government for the second time in as many weeks. The vote, held yesterday, concluded with 32 votes opposing the motion and 19 in favour.
The leadership challenge was initiated by FAST party chairman, Laauli Leuatea Schmidt, but failed due to a lack of unified support from the opposition. Notably, the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) leader, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, chose to side with Fiame’s government this time, a reversal from the previous week’s stance.
In January, Fiame removed Laauli and several FAST ministers from her Cabinet, leading to a significant split within the ruling party.
During the parliamentary session, six MPs were allotted five minutes each to speak on the motion, totaling one hour of discussion. Speaker of the House, Papaliʻi Liʻo Taeu Masipau, clarified that the legislative clerk determined five representatives, including the motion’s instigator, were permitted to speak.
Laauli, addressing the ongoing political situation, remarked, “It’s now been over two months this has been ongoing.” He emphasized the need for resolution, stating, “If you love this country, they are waiting for an answer and peace.”
MP Leota Laki expressed dissatisfaction with the manner of his termination, noting, “It was a sign and a blessing that I had found out because I knew then what was coming, but that goes to show how unprofessional her leadership is.”
Opposition leader Tuilaepa highlighted the necessity for unity within the government, asserting, “Samoa is watching, and Samoa needs a united Parliament.” He called for collective responsibility, adding, “There is a collective responsibility that parliament needs to take on together.”
With the motion defeated, Parliament will proceed with its legislative agenda, including the upcoming budget scheduled for June.
