Prominent Writer Accused of Murder Pleads Not Guilty to 6 Charges

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 30 July 2024 – Prominent writer and poet Papalii Sia Figel has entered a not guilty plea through her lawyer Unasa Iuni Sapolu on 6 charges against her.

The charges are murder, armed with a dangerous weapon, manslaughter, grievous bodily harm, assault and actual bodily harm.

Her trial is scheduled for March 2025, but the matter will be recalled next Monday for counsel to file a bail application and to present an update on the mental assessment report on the defendant.

Figiel is accused for the murder of American Samoa academic and writer, 78 year old Dr. Caroline Sinavaiana-Gabbard in late May at Vaivase-uta.