Speaker of the House Li’o Papalii Taeu Masipa’u says “protecting the integrity of Parliament” is his main duty.
He did not confirm nor deny reports of a move to reprimand the leader of the Human Rights Protection Party Tuilaepa Dr Sa’ilele Malielegaoi and party secretary, Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi.
He made the comments when contacted by Radio Polynesia yesterday over reports that Tuilaepa and Leala will be reprimanded in Parliament today.
The MPs were both found guilty of contempt of court last month.
The Court however opted not to render a penalty, given “very special circumstances” including Tuilaepa’s long years of service and the agreement signed by Tuilaepa and Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa to put these election arguments behind them and move forward.
The Speaker of the House, during a brief interview, there are processes in place that guides the work of Parliament and the authority of the Speaker, referring to Standing Orders of Parliament and reiterated his “main concern is protecting the integrity of the Parliament.”
“Another aspect of my role as the Speaker of the House is assuring there is unity amongst Members of Parliament,” said Li’o.