An application to quash defamation charges filed against Australian-based radio announcer, Tiumalumatua Maifea Fetu, has been denied by the District Court.
Judge Leota Raymond Schuster heard the motion argued by Tiumalumatua’s Counsels on Thursday afternoon and delivered his decision Friday morning before a courtroom packed with supporters of both sides.
The radio announcer is alleged to have spoken out against Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa and other members of Cabinet on the Samoa Toe Faaolaola radio show broadcasted in Melhourne, Australia.
The complaint against Tiumalumatua was filed by the Secretary of the FAST party under Section 117(A) of Samoa’s Criminal Act.
Following the decision this morning – the case moved immediately to a hearing before Judge Schuster in the District Court.
FAST Secretary Va’aaoao Salu Alofipo is giving evidence.
