From the files of FaaSamoa. A Church Minister appeared before the Supreme Court of Samoa this week facing charges relating to the alleged embezzlement and misuse of church funds.
Clay Tofilau, a faifeau of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa (CCCS) or EFKS from Savaia Tai, appeared before Justice Fepuleai Ameperosa Roma during criminal mentions this week.
Represented by lawyer Leiataualesa Komisi Koria, the Church Minister pleaded not guilty to all five charges filed against him including allegations of fraudulently signing for church funds.
The Courtroom was packed with members of the EFKS church from Savaia – those in support of the Minister and those who had taken the matter to police.
Outside Court a member of the church who wished to not be named told Samoa Global News that the filing of charges against the church minister has divided the Congregation.
He said some church members had taken the matter to police and brought these charges against the Minister, however, the other half of the Congregation are not happy with any of this, and are on the Minister’s side.
“There is no peace amongst us at this time,” he said.
Justice Roma has set down the 26th of February 2024 for the Court hearing. Reverend Clay Tofilau remains on bail with the condition of signing in with police on a weekly basis.
