Former Deputy Prime Minister lodges motion to stay and review court’s decision

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, SAMOA – 31 March 2026: The former Deputy Prime Minister, Toelupe Maoiautele Poumulinuku Onesemo has lodged a motion to stay the Electoral Court’s decision issued last week which voided the Falealili 1 district parliamentary seat he held after the general election last year.

Also lodged is a “motion for enforcement of a constitutional right and a review of the court’s decision.”

The motion to stay a decision, is to suspend the court’s decision until a case is heard, and Toelupe has already lodged a case with the court.

The Electoral Court found Toelupe guilty of corrupt practise around the election period last year and declared Falealili 1 seat void.

Respect for the court ruling but
At yesterday’s press conference, Toelupe expressed his respect for the court and its work however, as he stepped down from his position as Deputy Prime Minister and as a Cabinet Minister, he confirmed that his lawyer have lodged a case with the court to review the decision.

Toelupe said he is humbled by the prayers and messages of encouragement from families, members of the district and supporters in search for the truth to have clarity for the sake of future generations.

He said his district of Falealili 1 agreed to withdraw the petition, but he did not understand why the court could not do it; yet allowed the other side to continue the petition.

He spoke of the challenges but trust in God that always will result in victory.

Reflecting on his and the FAST party’s journey after winning the 2021 election and how the Government then under the leadership of Fiame Naomi Mataafa prioritised the development of people, families, culture but especially the Christian values.

According to Toelupe, the core aspect of the FAST policies is to help those at lowest end of the social ladder and government needs to persevere to fight for the truth.

He wished the FAST Government the best and to move forward and serve the people and country well.