Leauva’a files Contempt of Court Petition against Afega

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, SAMOA – 12 April 2024 – The people of Leauvaa have filed a contempt of court case against Afega alleging they have continued work on the disputed land despite the Supreme Court order to cease work.

Early this week, Chief Justice Satiu Simativa Perese granted an interim injunction against Afega to stop work and the mass eviction of Leauvaa families from the disputed land.

In court today, His Honour Chief justice Satiu Simativa Perese said the application does not identify who the contempt of order should be directed to.

He also said that Afega continues to damage Leauvaa family properties as of yesterday.

He then adjourned the contempt of court hearing to Tuesday next week.

Leader of the Afega matais, Maulolo Tavita Amosa refuted the Chief Justice’s claim.

“That’s not true,” said Maulolo.

When asked about the contempt of court, he said that’s Leauvaa’s rights.

“We will not be threatened by any contempt of court case,” he said.

Afega also rejects the interim injunction order.

“We stand by the LTC order,” said Maulolo.

Meanwhile, the hearing of the constitutional issues and jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to rule against a Land and Titles Court ruling is scheduled for May.

LTC counsel Letoafaiga David Fong argued to have the jurisdiction hearing first but His Honour said both issues will be heard together in May.