Independent MP Motuopuaa Seve Henny Papalii has officially resigned from Sāmoa’s Legislative Assembly, triggering a by-election for the Vaisigano II electorate. His decision comes as he prepares to contest the seat under the banner of the ruling Faatuatua i le Atua Sāmoa ua Tasi (FAST) party.
Motuopuaa made his resignation known during a Parliament session on January 20, marking an end to his tenure as an independent parliamentarian. Following his announcement, the Parliament accepted his resignation and declared the seat vacant.
In his speech to Parliament, Motuopuaa emphasized that his choice to resign was motivated by the desires of his constituents and his aim to align with the governing party. He noted that under electoral law, in order to run as a candidate for FAST, he was required to step down and seek a renewed mandate from the electorate.
Initially elected as the independent MP for Vaisigano II in the general election held on August 29, 2025, Motuopuaa was one of only six independents to secure a seat at that time. His recent resignation follows an endorsement ceremony conducted on January 17, during which village representatives and constituents publicly supported his decision to join FAST.
Among those in attendance at the ceremony were former competitors Sua Lesa Faavae and Tagaloa Leilua Tupou, who have since voiced their support for Motuopuaa’s transition to the governing party. The endorsement from local chiefs further highlighted the community backing behind his decision.
FAST party chairman and Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt acknowledged the significance of the resignation during a Parliament session, stating that members who shift their political affiliations should seek a fresh mandate from voters. He affirmed that Motuopuaa’s constituency had shown support for his move, underscoring the importance of fairness, transparency, and democratic accountability in the electoral process.
This resignation marks the second confirmed by-election in recent months, as Sāmoa undergoes a period of political realignment. Under Sāmoa’s Electoral Act, a by-election must be held when a sitting MP resigns, and the Electoral Commission of Sāmoa is anticipated to announce the schedule for nominations and polling shortly.
A public notice dated January 21 confirmed the vacancy in the Vaisigano II seat, while the exact date for the upcoming by-election remains to be determined. This transition presents an opportunity for the constituency to reaffirm their support for a candidate who aligns with their aspirations and expectations, emphasizing the dynamic nature of Sāmoa’s political landscape.
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