The Chairman of the Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) Party, La'aulialemaleitoa Leuatea Schmidt, said he wanted to take the witness stand during the conspiracy trial, but took the advice of his lawyers.

He was one of the six accused in the trial that was before the court for five weeks. La'aulialemalietoa, Fepuleai Faimata Su'a, Samuelu Su'a, Sivai Kepi, Lise-Marie Schmidt and Li'o Fa'ataumalama had denied charges of conspiracy, fabricating evidence, and defamation.

The prosecution concluded its case on Thursday. The defence counsel for all the accused chose not to take the stand and leave it to the state to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Speaking during the Fofola le Fala weekly programme with the media, La'aulialemaietoa was asked why none of the six accused gave evidence in court.

"I can't speak much about that matter, but the reason is that we were advised by our lawyers not to give evidence," he said.

"I was preparing for the longest time to give evidence just like I did with my previous case with 350 charges."

La'aulialemalietoa told the media that he trusted their lawyers and the advice they gave.

"I trust our lawyer's advice and that is not to give evidence."

He said the court case caused tensions in Samoa and the government, with the police pressing charges that had a big impact on the FAST Party as a whole.

He said it was the decision made by Fiame to sack 15 ministers and all the associate ministers that was the reason for this because these loyal members are now fighting for justice.

"Whatever that's been said about this case, it's too late, the cup of water has been spilt," La'aulialemalietoa said.

Judge Talasa Atoa-Sa'aga adjourned the matter for all counsel to file their closing submissions.

Prosecutor Leinafo Taimalelagi-Strickland has until 4 August to file her closing submission, while the defence counsels have until 1 September.

All final submissions will be heard in court on 6 October.