Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Man pleads guilty to conspiring to assassinate Samoa PM
One of three suspects facing charges of conspiring to
assassinate Samoa's Prime Minister has pleaded guilty while
two co-defendants have entered not guilty pleas on a charge
of conspiring to commit murder.
Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegoai Photo: RNZ Pacific /Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
Taualai Leiloa, Malele Atofu Paulo and Lema'i Faioso Sione appeared in court together for the first time today.
Leiloa, from Laulii village, is accused of conspiring to commit murder with Talalelei Pauga, who resides in Australia, to assassinate Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.
Police claim this is related to a time period between April and August this year.
Leiloa, who pleaded guilty, will be sentenced on the 30 September but a hearing date for Mr Paulo, also known as King Faipopo, and Mr Sione has yet to be confirmed.
The suspects' application to be released on bail will be heard next week.
They are currently in custody in a high security cell at Tanumalala prison.
RNZ
New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing comprehensive NZ news and current affairs, specialist audio features and documentaries.
Radio New Zealand is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. Radio New Zealand News are vital elements in our programming, providing impartial news and information to New Zealanders every day. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) provides listeners with exciting and independent radio programmes in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter.
Ian Powell: From Thriving To Surviving - ‘Poster Child’ General Practice Struggle Symbolises Primary Care Crisis
Ramzy Baroud: Criminalizing UNRWA - How Israel Is Delegitimizing The United Nations
Binoy Kampmark: The Price Of Eggs - Why Harris Lost To Trump
Martin LeFevre - Meditations: The Triumph Of The Swill
Gordon Campbell: On US Voter Suppression, Plus The Races To Watch
Ian Powell: Fast-Tracking Wealth Accumulation And The War On Nature