Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) general secretary Lenaitasi Duru says they are not worried about heading to the polls.

The party currently has seven out of the 21 sitting SODELPA Members of Parliament who will contest the 2022 General Election.

Mr Duru also said members were confident and determined.

The seven MPs who showed interest in contesting for SODELPA in the 2022 General Election are Viliame Gavoka, Mikaele Leawere, Anare Jale, Aseri Radrodro, Ratu Jone Seniloli, Simione Rasova and Tanya Waqanika.

Mr Duru said the three sitting SODELPA MPs who had withdrawn their applications were Ro Filipe Tuisawau, Inosi Kuruidrani and Jese Saukuru.

He confirmed that 14 MPs had not shown interest to contesting the election.

“SODELPA is in the process of completing their candidate selection process,” Mr Duru said.

“Even though 14 MPs have not shown interest, it has not worried us a bit.

“We have plans and processes in place. We are not worried because our supporters are loyal.

“We are working towards meeting the targets we have set for the party.”

He said the seven MPs who had reapplied for a SODELPA ticket were highly likely to be the first set of confirmed candidates.

“They are familiar with the party and will not go through a vigorous screening process compared to the new candidates.

“It’s the new ones who we will have to scrutinise.”

Mr Duru said the party hoped to distribute its manifesto from April 26.

“We are in the process of printing our manifesto samples and on the 26th we will start distributing our manifestos.

“Our fundraising activities are picking up and we have people coming in, in terms of advertising and the marketing of the party.”