The Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) is considering joining the Falealili No. 1 election petition and is holding talks with its lawyers before the timeframe to do so runs out.

Tuiloma Laniselota Lameko and Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo filed a joint notice seeking leave to withdraw their petition and counter-petition.

The notice, dated 27 October, stated that the decision followed advice from the Alii ma Faipule of Falealili for both parties to reconcile and work together for the stability and prosperity of their constituency. It said both candidates agreed that continuing with the proceedings would be detrimental to the unity of their itumalo and that withdrawing the case was in the best interests of Falealili.

The filing also said both parties no longer wished to pursue their claims and acknowledged that doing so would save the court’s time and resources.

Under the law, the Supreme Court has granted seven days from October 28 for any person wishing to oppose the withdrawal or to apply to be substituted as a petitioner or counter-petitioner.

HRPP Secretary Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi on Friday said the party and its lawyers are reviewing their position within that timeframe.

“Since there is an opening from the court allowing seven days for the intention to withdraw and also for anyone who wishes to file new charges to join the case, the Human Rights Protection Party and our lawyers are considering how we are going to go about joining this case,” Lealailepule said.

He confirmed that the party also met with Tuiloma on Friday to address reports of a monetary settlement to withdraw his petition. Lealailepule said the HRPP had been informed of the rumours but emphasised that no credible evidence had been presented to support them.

“Tuiloma, during our meeting, denied the rumour and stated that they were not true,” he said. “The party will not take any action without verifiable proof to substantiate the claims.”

Lealailepule said the HRPP’s focus remains on ensuring transparency and accountability in election matters while respecting the court process.