The Head of State, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi leaving Parliament

by Lance Polu

APIA: Friday 20 July 2012: Samoa’s political stability continues with the bi-partisan appointment by Parliament this morning of incumbent Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi as Head of State for another five years.

After five weeks when Parliament extended the term as more time was given for nominations to be received, the Prime Minister moved the motion to appoint the incumbent that was fully supported by the Tautua Opposition Party.

The Opposition Leader, Palusalue Fa’apo offered his full support saying there are issues when party politics come to play “but the stability of the country and politics represented by undivided support for the top post in Government and country, is paramount.”

He thanked the Prime Minister and the ruling Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) for the foresight and confidence in the incumbent.

There had been reports of others being nominated including the Member of the Council of Deputies and senior MPs.

The Head of States’ appointment in made by Parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister.

It is the second time in Samoas’ 50 years of political independence that the appointment has been made. Under the Constitution the Head of Sate is appointed for a five year term and can no longer be reserved for the paramount families.

Tui Atua was first appointed in 2008 following the death of long serving Head of State Malietoa Tanumafili 11 who served the post for life as one of the founding joint Heads of State with Tui Atua’s father, Tamasese Meaole who passed away in 1963.

Tui Atua will be sworn in in Parliament at 1000am next Wednesday 25 July.