By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong •
A recommendation to suspend opposition member Leaana Ronnie Posini for three days was dropped after the former minister he accused, Laauli Leuatea Schmidt forgave him for making false accusations targeting him.
Laauli said the claims had “ripped him apart” in the House and outside.
The report from the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry into Safata No.1 Member of Parliament, Leaana Ronnie Posini was tabled and deliberated in the Assembly on Tuesday.
Leaana was investigated for accusations he made against La’auli alleging he was hiding behind an overseas-based media that made comments to undermine the court and the Ministry of Police.
Chaired by Deputy Speaker, Auapaau Mulipola Aloitafua the committee in tabling its findings when the House convened concluded that the allegations from Leaana were not proven and false.
The Parliamentary Privilege and Ethics Committee reached a conclusion recommending the suspension of Leaana for three days without allowance as a lesson for his actions.
The report was signed by four committee members while the other five refused to sign objecting to the three days penalty recommendation.
After members spoke about the report, La’auli said the investigation was to respond to defamatory allegations that had affected his reputation.
He said although he is still alive the effect of the words spoken has slain him, falsely accused him and disturbed the peace.
“This matter is to go against defamatory comments...
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