Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) leader, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, has defended his party’s proposal to cut the 15 per cent Value Added Goods and Services Tax (VAGST), saying the move is a direct response to the nation’s worsening cost of living.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer at his usual Thursday press conference the “Special Underprivileged Population Assistance,” initiative—part of its three-pronged policy platform alongside the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) and the Pension Ensuring Lasting Empowerment (PELEGA)—Tuilaepa was questioned about the apparent U-turn, given that it was his government that continued the VAGST during its time in office.

“It was all part and parcel of our assistance to people who are hard-up, and we have been told that the cost of living is terrible,” he explained. “And it is part and parcel of the measures that we have taken to help out with our people. So that's the explanation.”

Pressed on why such proposals were not introduced during his administration’s four decades in power, Tuilaepa pointed to the dramatic increase in living costs under the current government.

“To give you some idea, at the time we were the government, the cost of a bag of cement was $18 to $20. Now it's over $100 per bag,” he claimed. “The cost of the box of chicken pieces was about $20 to $22. Now it is over $100.”

Although HRPP is currently not in government, Tuilaepa stressed the role of the opposition in offering alternatives.

“We are not a government. We are coming in with proposals because the cost of living has gone sky-high. And the government doesn't seem to know what to do.”

When asked why voters should trust his promises, Tuilaepa responded: “Because we have done it in the past. For the last 40 years, we did what we promised.” He referenced past policies implemented during his leadership, including the 1983 introduction of the National Fuel Supply tender, which ensured gasoline supply for Samoan households.

Preparations for the party’s candidates are nearly complete, with the official roll call of all candidates scheduled for release at 4 p.m. this Friday at HRPP Headquarters in Peseta. The event is expected to draw a large crowd of supporters, including both new and long-time members.