Matai

In a recent Press Release it stated that while OEC respects the potential candidate’s freedom to express his views and his own interpretation of the Electoral Act, the Office is not bound by those views and that interpretation.

TV1 Samoa said the man who is an influential leader of the village, lives in New Zealand and was visiting Samoa when the incident happened.

Police told the court the accused was under the influence of alcohol at the time.

The man, who is yet to be named, will be sentenced on the 8th of August.

Lupematasila Misatauveve Dr Melani Anae from the University of Auckland's Centre of Pacific Studies said the data gathered from the symposium is part of research examining how Samoans with chiefly titles apply their responsibilities overseas.

She said it was good to see, not only, more women taking up titles, but also an attitudinal change among youth.

"For our young people, fa'amatai is something to be feared and is always approached with foreboding and intrepidation.