Accused in conspiracy to murder case fires lawyer just before sentencing

By Lagi Keresoma

APIA, SAMOA – 28 APRIL 2023: One of the accused in the conspiracy case to assassinate the former Prime Minister, has asked the Court that he wanted to change his lawyer as he was about to be sentenced.

Malele Paulo (aka King Faipopo) was found guilty of the charge by a panel of assessors early this month and was to be sentenced today.

However, before Senior Justice Vui Clarence Nelson could proceed, Paulo raised his hand and asked for permission to speak.

Justice Nelson informed Paulo that he was legally represented and if he wanted to say something to the Court, then he had to go through his lawyer.

Paulo however continued to speak and said he did not trust his lawyer, Quentin Sauaga anymore; especially that he had instructed him to appeal the panel of Assessors guilty verdict against him and Lema’i Sione but had not done so.

He continued to speak but Justice Nelson stopped him.

Justice Nelson asked Sauaga if he knew about his client’s intention to which the lawyer said no.

Justice Nelson then informed Paulo that if he wanted to change lawyers he has every right to do so, but he needs to talk with his lawyer first.

Recently, Paulo posted a GoFundMe appeal on social media to assist with his legal fees.

Prosecutor oppose stay of sentence application
Paulo was jointly charged with Lema’i Sione and the pair had been found guilty by the panel of assessors. However, Lema’i’s lawyer appealed the assessors’ verdict a few weeks after it was delivered.

Prosecution opposed the application for a stay of sentence.

Justice Nelson has returned the matter to be mentioned on 8 May 2023 to set a date to hear the application for a stay of sentence until after the appeal.