Deputy PM counter petition lists 102 allegations against the petitioner

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 02 October 2025 – The Deputy Prime Minister, Toelupe Maoiautele Poumulinuku Onesemo has filed a counter petition consisting of 102 allegations of election malpractices against the petitioner, Tuiloma Tusa Laniselota Lameko.

Both competed for the Falealili 1 parliamentary seat in the 29 August election where Toelupe was re-elected.

In Toelupe’s counter petition, he pointed out a systematic pattern of alleged corrupt practices by Tuiloma aimed at influencing voters.

The counter-petition lists a series of alleged violations primarily involving bribery and treating prohibited under sections 94 and 96 of the Electoral Act.

The allegations span from the month of June to August 2025 covering multiple villages and locations within the constituency, detailing allegations at numerous locations within the constituency and other known villages in Apia.

The allegations ranged from providing transportation for voters to treating by providing food and money to voters.

The petition will be heard on 27 October before Senior Justice Vui Clarence Nelson and Justice Leiataualesa Daryl Clarke.