Former prime minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi supporting HRPP members after the 2021 election loss. Photo: Supplied
Samoa's opposition Human Rights Protection Party has lost another member from its Parliamentary caucus, with the MP for Va'a-o-Fonoti constituency tendering his resignation from the party.
The Samoa Observer reports that Mau'u Siaosi Pu'epu'emai has officially resigned from the HRPP effective from November 25, but will remain an independent MP.
The first-time parliamentarian emphasised the needs of his constituency as his primary concern behind his resignation, and his responsibility to ensure proposed developments are carried out during his tenure.
Pu'epu'emai made his intention clear in a letter addressed to the leader of the party, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, the deputy leader, Lauofo Fonotoe Pierre and party members.
Mau'u said his decision to leave the party is due to the absence of any development work being done in his district since his election to public office.
He stressed he has no doubt in the plans of the HRPP party leader and his foresight, given his experience and years of service.
He is now the third opposition MP to have walked away and declared themself as an Independent in the Legislative Assembly.
His two former colleagues both resigned because they wanted a leadership change.
The HRPP said former members cannot remain parliamentarians by law but must return to their constituencies for by-elections.
The Speaker has said that the matter would be cleared up when Parliament resumes next month.