Money was distributed during several campaign-related gatherings held at the Savaiian Hotel in Lalomalava in August, a witness told the Electoral Court on Wednesday.

The election petition case filed by Magele Sekati Fiaui against Faasaleleaga No. 2 member of parliament Vaaelua Senetenari Samau resumed on Wednesday morning before Justices Leutele Mata Tuatagaloa and Loau Donald Kerslake, following a one-day stand down.

The petitioner’s first witness, 35-year-old voter Faatafa Gauta Matautia from Faasaleleaga No. 2, took the stand and gave sworn evidence alleging that money was distributed during several campaign-related gatherings held at the Savaiian Hotel in Lalomalava during August.

According to Matautia, she attended three separate events where she said cash was given to voters by members of Vaaelua’s campaign team. She told the court that on 4 August, she was invited by her cousin to a program hosted by Vaaelua at the Savaiian Hotel, where food was being served to attendees. She claimed that during the event, she saw members of Vaaelua’s committee distributing money to those present.

She said one of the matai, Talalafai Toma, gave $100 to each person while telling them to “vote wisely,” which she explained was a reference to voting for Vaaelua, who was running under the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP). Matautia added that the MP was present at the event and watched as his children and committee members handed out cash to attendees.

The witness further alleged that during another meeting on 14 August, she again observed Vaaelua’s children distributing money to voters. She claimed she personally received $100 from one of them during the event.

Matautia also described a third gathering on 21 August at the same venue, where she alleged that Vaaelua told the crowd there would be a “gift” shared among those present. She said this led to her receiving $50, which was again distributed by members of the MP’s team.

The witness’s testimony forms part of the petitioner’s allegations that the Faasaleleaga No. 2 MP engaged in bribery and treating during the lead-up to the general election.

The case is being heard in the Electoral Court and continues this week with more witnesses expected to testify.

On Tuesday, petitioner Magele Sekati Fiaui had informed the court of his intention to withdraw the petition against Vaaelua. However, the MP’s counsel objected to the withdrawal, leading the court to stand down the matter for proper filing. The court clarified that Vaaelua’s counter-petition against Magele remained active.