The Speaker of Samoa’s Parliament, Papalii Li’o Ta’eu Masipa’u, is threatening to take a local media outlet to court over the reporting of the arrest of his son after a Police drug bust last week.
Samoa Observer reports Papali’i said in an interview that it was not necessary for LoaBay Online Media to ruin his reputation as the Speaker over something he did not do.
“And for that, I will take legal actions against that media outlet because of their reports. They did not have to mention my position as the Speaker of the House,” he said.
The former deputy Police Commissioner told the newspaper he applauded police for the work they are doing to curb the drug trade in the country.
His son, deputy Electoral Commissioner, Afualo Daryl Mapu was arrested last week after drugs, illegal firearms and a large amount of money were found during an early morning raid at his home.
An unnamed female coworker of Afualo was also arrested in the drug bust.
Papalii alluded to drugs being the cause of “issues” following the April general elections.
“It is no wonder why they come up with premature decisions and inconsistency with the calculations of the 10 percent requirement for women’s representation in Parliament following the election,” he said.
The arrested pair will appear in court later this month.
