New Head of State? Prime Minister Tuilaepa won't say

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 04 July 2017, 12:00AM

Reports that a new Head of State has been appointed by the government, could not be confirmed at press time last night.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, was asked for a comment at his home at the time. He declined to comment.

He said: “I won’t know until tomorrow, as there are issues that need to be dealt with between tonight and tomorrow morning." 

“The decision, will be finalized tomorrow." 

He also said: “I will explain why it’s handled this way tomorrow in Parliament.” 

The Prime Minister rejected the claim that a vote was cast on a preferred Head of State at the Human Rights Protection Party caucus yesterday evening. 

He reiterated: “No decision has been made yet until 9:30 a.m. tomorrow." 

Tuilaepa pointed out that the Head of State's post is for five years.

“A new phase in the political history will be disclosed tomorrow. 

It is often said that every Samoan is a born politician.” 

Samoa’s current Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, has been serving the country for ten years. 

Tuilaepa explained: “Other members are the three Members of the Council of Deputies." 

“As it is, the H.R.P.P. has the numbers to appoint a candidate." “If the decision is one for continuity, there will be a big celebration Wednesday evening,” Tuilaepa said.

According to Article 18 of the amended Constitution, the Head of State shall be appointed by the Legislative Assembly acting on the recommendation of the party or parties in Government. 

Within 60 days before expiry of the term of appointment of the Head of State or as soon as practicable when there is a vacancy in the office of Head of State. 

The party or parties in Government shall submit to the Speaker a written Notice recommending the name of only one person to be appointed as Head of State.

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 04 July 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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