Mulinu’u, Samoa – The high-profile trial of FAST Party Chairman and Leader, La’aulialemalietoa Polataivao Leuatea Schmidt, commenced this week under heightened security measures at the District Courthouse in Mulinu’u. The case has drawn widespread public attention, with supporters from across Samoa and abroad gathering in large numbers outside the courthouse, many wearing the party’s signature red.
Police barricaded the entrance to the courthouse, allowing only limited access to the courtroom due to seating restrictions. Those unable to gain entry gathered outside, chanting slogans in support of the FAST Party leader.
La’aulialemalietoa faces 16 charges, which have been divided into joint charges involving other co-defendants and individual charges specifically against him. The charges include conspiracy, harassment, defamation, and using electronic means to insult or defame others.
Overview of Charges
Prosecutor Leinafo Taimalelagi Strickland, supported by co-counsel Faau’u Kolia, outlined the charges during the court session:
Joint Charges: The joint charges involve La’aulialemalietoa and four co-accused individuals, including Samuelu Leau, Sivai Kepi Mamea, Member of Parliament Fepuleai Faimata Su'a, Lise Schmidt, and Faataumalamala Lio Auava. These charges include:
Three counts of conspiring or attempting to pervert the course of justice
One count of conspiracy to commit an offence
Individual Charges: La’aulialemalietoa faces 12 charges directly, which include:
Five counts of harassment using electronic means
Five counts of defamation
Two counts of issuing insulting words
Court Schedule
The District Court has set two hearing periods for the case:
The joint charges will be heard between 26 May and 27 June.
The individual charges will be addressed during the week of 25-29 August.
Bail Conditions
As part of the bail conditions, La’aulialemalietoa is required to:
Sign in at the Police station every Friday before 4 PM
Surrender his travel documents
Refrain from posting or commenting on social media about the ongoing case
Avoid any contact with witnesses involved
Public Reaction and Political Significance
The trial has generated intense public interest, with many viewing it as a pivotal moment for Samoa’s political landscape. Supporters of the FAST Party have shown unwavering solidarity, rallying outside the courthouse to display their backing of La’aulialemalietoa.
Observers note that the outcome of the trial could have significant implications for the political future of the FAST Party, which has played a central role in reshaping Samoa’s political dynamics.
While the case continues, the District Court remains under tight security to ensure orderly proceedings. La’aulialemalietoa’s defense team, led by lawyer Muriel Lui, is expected to present their arguments during the upcoming hearings. The defence has maintained that La’aulialemalietoa will vigorously contest all charges.
As the nation watches closely, this trial is poised to be one of the most closely followed legal battles in recent Samoan history.
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