Court voids Tuilaepa and Lealailepule suspension

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 04 July 2023, 1:26PM

The Supreme Court today ruled that the suspension of the leader of the Human Rights Protection Party and party secretary for two years was unconstitutional and therefore voided the suspension of the opposition members.

Chief Justice, His Honour Satiu Simativa Perese and Justice Leiataualesa Daryl Clarke handed down the ruling this afternoon.

H.R.P.P. Leader and veteran M.P. for Lepa, Tuilaepa Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi and Faleata no3 member, Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi have been suspended for nine months denying their electorates voice in the House.

Chief Justice Satiu said the decision of Tuilaepa and Lealailepule breached article 44 (1) of the Constitution and framework of a Constitution of responsible and representative government and the suspension therefore void. 

In a brief interview outside Court, Leala said this is the answer from God and thanked all their supporters.

The senior members were prohibited from entering Parliament premises in an unprecedented secret ballot in October last year. 

They have been without pay since and sought refuge from the Court appealing their suspension on grounds their constitutional rights have been infringed and voice of electorates denied in the Assembly.

Prior to their two years suspension Tuilaepa and Leala were suspended indefinitely by a Parliamentary Committee for breaching parliamentary privileges. 

The Supreme Court later voided their indefinite suspension referring the matter back to the Legislative Assembly in which it imposed a two years suspension.

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 04 July 2023, 1:26PM
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