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Samoa is to hear on Monday whether fresh elections will go ahead next week.
The Supreme Court today heard challenges to the new ballot called last week by the Head of State, Tuimaleali ifano Va aletoa Sualauvi II.
Tuimalealiifano Va aletoa Sualauvi II
Photo: Samoa govt
Chief Justice Satiu Simativa Perese said the hearing would test the extent of the powers held by the Head of State - O le Ao o le Malo.
Tuimaleali ifano called the vote on the advice of the caretaker Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) prime minister Tuila epa Sa ilele Malielegaoi, purportedly to break the 26-seat each deadlock with the newcomer Fa atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) party.
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.
Head of State calls for second election in Samoa: Party reacts with anger
4 May, 2021 07:25 AM
3 minutes to read
Prime Minister of Samoa Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi and Fast party leader Fiame Naomi Mata afa. Photo / RNZ Pacific / Tipi Autagavaia
Prime Minister of Samoa Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi and Fast party leader Fiame Naomi Mata afa. Photo / RNZ Pacific / Tipi Autagavaia
RNZ
Samoa s Head of State has called for a second general election to bring an end to a deadlock in parliament.
The caretaker Human Rights Protection Party and the newcomer Fast party have been tied on 26 seats each since last month s election.