The re-trial of multiple charges against former government ministers, ‘Etuate and ‘Akosita Lavulavu, is adjourned to start on 30 October, after Acting Justice Langi rejected a proposal that it be deferred to early 2024, at the Supreme Court in Nuku’alofa, citing various reasons for urgency to proceed.
An application by ‘Akosita Lavulavu, supported by her husband ‘Etuate, for Acting Justice Langi to recuse herself from presiding over their re-trial later this month, was refused in a ruling on 18 October, at the Supreme Court in Nuku’alofa.
‘Etuate Lavulavu, whose appeal was dismissed by the Court of Appeal today in Nuku’alofa, will stand a re-trial with his wife ‘Akosita this month, at the Supreme Court.
An application by ‘Etuate Lavulavu to strike out his prosecution, claiming it was an abuse of process, was struck out by the Lord Chief Justice on 19 May. Together with his wife, 'Akosita Lavulavu they will stand a re-trial on an amended indictment. The Lord Chief Justice said the charges are serious and there is a powerful public interest in ensuring that they are tried
Wallis continues easing Covid-19 measures; Japan pledges 3 million doses of Covid-19 to the Pacific Bougainville and PNG leaders to meet in Wabag; Lavulavu attempted bribery in Tonga court case; New Cook Islands police chief settles in; Scam investigation underway in Vanuatu
Wallis continues easing Covid-19 measures
People in Wallis and Futuna no longer need to wear masks outside as the territory is now in phase 5 of its Covid-19 response.
After a sharp lockdown in early March, restrictions have been gradually eased and schools have been open for two weeks now.
In phase five indoor sport events are allowed again but bingo is still banned.