Guest Comment: A Parliament for the People

By Liva Seiuli, Samoan Political Commentator

This morning, the Speaker of the House took a stand—firm, resolute, and grounded in the principles of democracy. His opening remarks cut through the fog of political chaos like a beacon of clarity, reminding everyone in that chamber of a simple truth: this is not a FAST Party Parliament—it is a Parliament for the people.

He addressed the elephant in the room—the letter of expulsion targeting the Prime Minister and her Cabinet Ministers—and he made it clear: this is a party matter, not a parliamentary one. It is not for Parliament to become a battleground for political infighting or power plays. The Constitution reigns supreme, and under its guiding light, the Speaker affirmed his recognition of the Prime Minister and her five Cabinet Ministers as members of the Executive Arm of government.

In a move that echoed respect for the rule of law, the Speaker firmly stated that he has no power to vacate their seats based on party disputes. Let that sink in: no power to act on deflections, contradictions, or sabotage. The law, not letters of expulsion, governs this Parliament.

And to those who thought they could twist parliamentary procedure to fit their narrative, the Speaker’s words were a clear message: settle your differences in court, where justice and the Constitution prevail.

Today, Parliament was reminded of its true purpose. It is not a tool for political gamesmanship, nor a stage for vendettas disguised as governance. It is the heart of democracy, a place where the people’s voice is heard—not drowned out by the chaos of party politics.

This isn’t just a win for the Prime Minister or her Cabinet Ministers. This is a win for Samoa. A win for accountability, for the Constitution, and for the people who deserve leadership rooted in integrity, not personal ambition.

So let the parties settle their battles elsewhere. Parliament belongs to the people, and today, the Speaker ensured it stayed that way. The Constitution holds. Leadership stands firm. And Samoa moves forward—not as a divided house, but as a nation governed by law, not chaos.

Somewhere in there is the man that started this whole chaos, quiet and put in his rightful place!