Judge Delays Decision on High Profile Conspiracy Case

2026-02-27 - 02:47

The District Court has delayed its decision in the high-profile conspiracy case involving Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt and five others. District Court Judge Talasa Atoa-Saaga said she will now deliver her ruling on 20 March. Speaking in court, Judge Atoa-Saaga acknowledged that the country, the families of the defendants, and the accused themselves are all waiting anxiously for the outcome. “I know it is not easy for you to wait,” she said. The Judge explained that the final submissions from all the lawyers were detailed and complex, making it a difficult task to carefully review everything before writing her decision. “That is why I need extra time,” She hopes everyone understands the reason for the adjournment. Before ending the session, she also asked those present to remember her in their prayers. “Please remember me in your prayers” The Prime Minister, along with Fepuleai Faimata Sua, Fataumalama Lio, Lise-Marie Schmidt, Sam Sua and Sivai Kepi, faces charges including conspiracy to pervert the course of justice, fabricating evidence, and defamation.