A former speaker and cabinet minister in Samoa, La'auli Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt, is suing an associate minister and former business partner, Peseta Vaifou Tevaga, for US$3.8 million dollars.
Samoan MP, Laauli Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt Photo: RNZ Pacific / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
The Samoa Observer reported that Laauli and media owner Apulu Lance Polu were suing Peseta for loss of profits and damage to the reputation of their Nonu juice company.
It is the latest step in a legal wrangle that began in 2015.
Criminal proceedings filed against La'auli, Apulu and other associates are still pending in the Supreme Court.
Laauli was forced to resign as a minister but he remains an MP.
The criminal matter was due to be heard last week but was deferred until July 29 for mention.
