Maletino, 18, died after being struck by an unidentified vehicle in a hit-and-run incident in April, 2021. The university student’s death has been followed by a series of controversies; including allegations of a botched police investigation.
“Speculation regarding the connection between the two cases is unhelpful and potentially misleading,” he said.
“The current charges are based on specific alleged offences and are being handled through the usual legal channels.”
Auapa’au has clarified the charges against Laauli.
These include:
- Three counts of conspiracy or attempt to defeat or pervert the course of justice
- Conspiracy to commit an offence (fabricate evidence)
- Harassment utilising means of electronic communication
- Three counts of false statement causing harm to a person’s reputation
- Two counts of using insulting words with intent to provoke a breach of the peace
Laauli, who is also the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, had posted on social media after charges were laid against him that he was innocent of the accusations.
The Samoa Observer reported on Friday that Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa had stressed the need to let the law take its course.
Laauli is due in court on February 4.
Seasoned journalist calls on public to be cautious
RNZ Pacific correspondent Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia said the Prime Minister had not issued a public statement or held a media conference on the recent issue.
Local media reported that Laauli had been told to step down but Autagavaia said there was no confirmation from the Prime Minister or Laauli.
“There was talk that the FAST Caucus had met on Tuesday to discuss these matters.
“There have been a lot of social media comments about this issue, but people need to be cautious, and wait on the Prime Minister to comment,” he said.
The PM will meet with Cabinet on Wednesday to discuss when an outcome is expected.
