The opposition Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) has lost another member with the Member of Parliament for Va’a-o-Fonoti constituency, tendering his resignation from the party yesterday.
Samoa Observer reports that first term member Mau’u Siaosi Pu’epu’emai has officially resigned from the party effective Friday, November 25th, but will remain an independent MP.
Mau’u made his intention clear in a letter addressed to the leader of the HRPP, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, and the deputy leader, Lauofo Fonotoe Pierre, as well as party members.
He is the third opposition MP to have walked away and declared himself an Independent in the Legislative Assembly.
The HRPP is adamant that the three cannot remain parliamentarians by law, but must return to their constituencies for by-elections.
The Speaker has said that the matter would be cleared up when Parliament resumes next month.
Mau’u emphasized the needs of his constituency as the prime concern behind his resignation, and his responsibility to ensure proposed developments are carried out during his tenure.
He said, his decision to leave the party is due to the absence of any development work being done in his district since
his election.
He added that his constituents continue to question him, asking that he leave the party and turn to the Government, to ensure progress in the district’s development.
The MP stressed he has no doubt in the foresight of the party leader and his plans, given Tuilaepa’s experience and years of service.
Photo: Samoa Observer
