3 Dec 2004

Samoan Deputy Opposition Leader considers suing the Prime Minister

2:31 pm on 3 December 2004

The Samoan Deputy Opposition leader, Asiata Saleimoa Vaai, is considering suing the Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele, and the state-owned Samoa Broadcasting Corporation over allegations of wrongdoing.

Asiata is giving himself two weeks to consider if he will sue Tuilaepa after the latter alleged on television that he had sought help to cover up wrongdoing in connection with dealings with the Samoa National Provident Fund.

While Asiata has denied the claim to reporters, SBC television has failed to air the denial.

He says allegations that he was corrupt are serious.

However, Asiata says he hesitates to sue the Prime Minister because he would use public money to defend himself.