Vavaʻu 15 MP Sāmiu Vaipulu has launched a defamation lawsuit against Toula Town Officer Kavamone Toʻia over allegations made on Facebook that he misused parliamentary district funds.
Vaipulu is seeking TOP$10,000 in damages.
The legal action, filed in the Lower Court, follows a social media post in which Toʻia accused the deputy prime minister of embezzling public money meant for constituency development.
Vaipulu’s Lawyer, Dr Viliami Uasikē Lātū, argues that the claims are false and have harmed his reputation, according to a court document purportedly presenting the charges, seen by Kaniva News.
Toʻia was commenting on a status posted by the Neiafu Town Officer, Vava Lapota, on July 7.
Dr Latu, stated that Toʻia’s comment was malicious, provocative, and aimed at defaming Vaipulu.
The comment has discredited the MP and caused emotional distress, the legal document shows.
It is alleged that To’ia posted the following comment in Tongan: ‘Kau hoo foii poini mea maulalo mooni… oku ikai teke sio kihe Kai pe he fkfofoga ae paaga vv 15-he-Tau-kihe Tau… koe Ofisa Kolo Toula eni. Tali atu hoo tohi… pea oku ou iloii oku ikai koho hingoa totonu eni… kuo mau fiemau ha Fakafofonga foou ki vv 15… alu kihe lotu keke mau Maama mooni…’ a post accusing the MP of misappropriation of funds and calling for a new MP for Vavaʻu 15 Constituency.
