Candidacy withdrawn
The race for the Aleipata Itupa i Luga seat in Parliament has come down to two candidates.
This follows the decision by a third candidate, Taula Faulaau Sini, to withdraw his candidacy yesterday.
That now leaves the contest to incumbent M.P. Fagaivalu Kenrick Samu and Leo’o Dr. John Adams.
But should Fagaivalu’s eligibility challenge filed against Leo’o be successful, it would mean the constituency would not have an election come 4 March 2016.
Earlier this week, Fagaivalu filed two eligibility challenges against his opponents. While he cited a previous conviction against Taula, he argued that Leo’o has not satisfied the monotaga requirement in the Electoral Act.
The matter was brought before Chief Justice, Patu Tiava’asue Falefatu Sapolu, yesterday.
Taula’s lawyer, Te’o Richard Faaiuaso informed the Court that his client has withdrawn his candidacy with the Office of the Electoral Commission. He did not give a reason.
Amituanai’s lawyer, Helene Wallwork, also confirmed this with the Court.
She then withdrew the motion against the said respondent by her client.
His Honor Patu agreed.
In the meantime, the hearing of Fagaivalu’s challenge against Leo’o has been scheduled for 23 February 2016, next Tuesday.