In an interview with Pulotu on CTV Media Hard Talk with Canada, Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi mentioned the counsel from his New Zealand-based lawyers, directing him to concentrate his legal efforts on the platforms used to disseminate allegations rather than the “small mouthpieces” with limited financial resources. This advice underscores a pragmatic approach to legal redress, where the aim is to challenge the vehicles of misinformation rather than engaging in numerous battles against individuals who may lack the means to compensate for reputational damage.
Importantly, Aiafi clarified during the interview that the legal challenge is directed towards Sam Sua and the individuals behind him, emphasising that “it is not a case against Lealailepule, but a case I am bringing, along with others, against Samuelu for false testimony.” This statement highlights Aiafi’s perspective that the accusations stem from a broader network of individuals, suggesting a concerted effort to implicate him based on false claims.
Despite his focus on platforms, Aiafi clarified that these individuals, referred to as “small mouthpieces,” are not exempt from accountability. This includes instances like the interview conducted by Asiata Pio Vaoliko with Sam Sua on the Tautai A’e show, which aired on BluewaveTV on 14 September 2023. This particular interview has been a focal point in the spread of the allegations. Aiafi indicated that complaints have been lodged not only against the platforms that facilitated the dissemination of these claims but also against individuals directly involved, including Pio.
Aiafi’s legal strategy sheds light on the complexities of addressing defamation in the digital era, where social media platforms and online forums can amplify allegations rapidly.
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