Yesterday, 3 January Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Laauli Leuatea Schmidt arrived at the Samoa Police Station accompanied by Fepuleai and another FAST member. In a Facebook live video from the station, Laauli confirmed that he had been charged with ten counts, including fabricating evidence, conspiracy to commit an offense, defamation, and harassment via electronic means.
The charges stem from a prolonged investigation into the unresolved death of a young man known as Ituau. Laauli stated in his live broadcast, “O lenei mataupu e le o se mataupu fou,” describing the five-year pursuit of clarity over the incident.
He outlined the circumstances leading to his involvement, mentioning his and Fepuleai’s efforts to assist the police investigation. Laauli asserted that their actions were intended to help identify those responsible and criticised the police’s subsequent charges against him, Fepuleai, and others involved in the investigation.
Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa issued a statement acknowledging the gravity of the situation,
E le o se mataupu faatauva’a le molia o se Minisita o le Kapeneta ma e i ai ona aafiaga mo le Malo e ui e lē se moliaga tau i le tofiga.
She highlighted the need for legal processes to proceed in court, where all charges can be examined and resolved fairly.
Laauli maintained his stance during the interaction with journalists, stating that any decision regarding his Cabinet portfolio would be addressed by the Cabinet. “O le kapeneta e sau ai le tali pe oute alu ese mai i la’u tofi,” he said.
The case has drawn a lot of public attention due to its high-profile nature and the broader implications for Samoa’s political landscape.
Fiame reminded the public of the importance of preserving legal integrity.
“O le Faamasinoga o le malu lea faa-le-tulafono e avanoa mo so’o se tagata Samoa e saili i ai le amiotonu.”
Laauli is expected to appear in court on 4 February to answer the charges.
