By Martha Taumata Faavae
The Human Rights Protection Party, HRPP, is not backing down from its political leadership role despite being forced to give up close to 40 years of Government rule.
A national convoy of flag bearing cars and a support march are being organized as proof to show that the fighting spirit remains alive and strong in the party.
The convoy of flag bearing cars to run simultaneously in both Upolu and Savaii this coming Friday serves to reassure the party followers around the country.
A support march for the constitutional rights of the Head of State will follow next Monday from Aggies Sheraton Hotel at Vaisigano across central Apia and out to the Tiafau Malae at Mulinu’u.
The public awareness activities were finalized in a national HRPP supporters rally this afternoon, Wednesday 28 July 21 at a packed out Maota i Petesa headquarters.
Party leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has already conceded the election win to political rivals FAST but admitted it is a bitter cup they are forced to swallow for the sake of peace in the country.
The good image of Samoa in the international community was another swaying factor in the HRPP decision to step aside.
Tuilaepa vowed the HRPP will provide a strong opposition for the new Government to contend with.
On top of the priority list for the new opposition is to restore the full powers of Constitutional rule and to respect the dignity of the Office of the Head of State.
The HRPP leader maintains that the Judiciary has overstepped its boundaries by overlooking the Constitutional powers of the Head of State.
The Friday 23 May 2021 Appeals Court ruling to legally hand over the new Government to the FAST party remains a bitterly disputed decision of the Judiciary by the former Prime Minister and the HRPP protesting supporters.
Parliament is expected to convene for the first time since general elections on 9 April 2021 with a lot of uncertainties still to unclear.
Meanwhile Tuilaepa was swamped by the huge turnout of supporters at party headquarters this afternoon in a show of loyalty and affection for his leadership.
His unwavering push to stand firm and resolute for the good of the party and country still holds considerable appeal in Samoa.