It's week 12 of the Samoa political crisis and, and in the latest development MPs are resigning from their seats to force by-elections.
It's week 12 of the Samoa political crisis and, and in the latest development MPs are resigning from their seats to force by-elections.
In both cases the MPs - and their challengers - were facing claims of bribery and treating at the electoral court.
In Sagaga No 4 both the winning HRPP candidate and his FAST challenger agreed to withdraw electoral petition and go to a by-election.
In Falealupo, also won by the HRPP, the FAST party candidate withdrew his petition on condition his opponent agreed not to stand in the resulting by-election.
Don Wiseman spoke with the chairman and founder of FAST, Laauli ale Malietoa Leuatea Polataivao, and asked him why these MPs in the rival party are walking away in this fashion.
Laauli ale Malietoa Leuatea Polataivao speaking to reporters in Samoa. Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Tipi Autagavaia
