Samoan prime minister claims to be ‘appointed by God’

By RNZ and is republished with permission

Samoa’s caretaker prime minister has reportedly told local media he was “appointed by God” to lead the country, and the judiciary has no authority over his appointment.

Tuila'epa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi addressing Samoa on the measles epidemic.
Samoa’s caretaker prime minister Tuila’epa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi Photo: RNZ Pacific / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia

Tuila’epa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi’s comments came after protests were directed against him in front of the Supreme Court.

He told the Samoa Observer “I am appointed by God” so protests were futile in front of the judiciary whom he said had no bearing on his appointment.

The incumbent governing party HRPP and newcomers FAST have been locked in a deadlock over who can form a government since general elections last month.

Last week the Head of State directed a second election be held, and HRPP immediately launched a political campaign, whereas the FAST party have challenged the legality of the call for a second election.

Tuila’epa said protesters would do better “to protest through prayers on bended knees inside a church”.

Protesters had congregated outside Samoa’s highest court against the snap-election called by the head of state on the advice of Tuila’epa.

The Supreme Court is meeting tomorrow to decide the fate of the election.

About The Author

Sometimes when a business is growing, it needs a little help.

Right now Kaniva News provides a free, politically independent, bilingual news service for readers around the world that is absolutely unique. We are the largest New Zealand-based Tongan news service, and our stories reach Tongans  wherever they are round the world. But as we grow, there are increased demands on Kaniva News for translation into Tongan on our social media accounts and for the costs associated with expansion. We believe it is important for Tongans to have their own voice and for Tongans to preserve their language, customs and heritage. That is something to which we are strongly committed. That’s why we are asking you to consider sponsoring our work and helping to preserve a uniquely Tongan point of view for our readers and listeners.

spot_imgspot_imgspot_imgspot_img

Latest news

Related news