18 Dec 2004

Samoa opposition criticises PM over opening ceremonies

8:21 am on 18 December 2004

The Opposition leader in Samoa who's opening his new hotel tomorrow, says his rival, the prime minister, won't be giving the main speech, at the launch.

Le Mamea has repeatedly accused the Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi of unnecessarily opening projects throughout the country just to appear on state television.

The Prime Minister has been invited to attend the launching of Le Mamea's 22-room hotel at Sogi, but won't be giving the main address.

The Opposition says it objects to the premier giving speeches at opening ceremonies, adding that the visit of such dignitaries forces villages to provide gifts including meat and other goods.