By Talaia Mika
APIA, SAMOA – 10 JUNE 2022: The Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure (MWTI), Olo Fiti Vaai says he will take legal action against former Prime Minister and Opposition Leader for defamation.
Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi claimed in a press conference this week that the Minister has registered a Government owned Toyota Landcruiser under his name for his personal gain.
He added that Olo has abused his powers in buying the vehicle.
“We have Government guidelines to prevent corrupt ministers who use the power to purchase expensive vehicles especially when they register the vehicles under their names,” said Tuilaepa. “That’s not allowed,” he added.
“Once you register a Government vehicle under your name that is called theft.”
In response, the Minister Olo Fiti Vaai provided Talamua with the vehicle registration stating that the vehicle is registered under the government and said he will sue the opposition leader for defamation.
“The only reason why I’m responding is to clear the air because Tuilaepa and Lealailepule literally misinform the public with false information but I don’t respond to suspended members of parliament,” he said.
Tuilaepa and Lealailepule are currently suspended indefinitely for contempt of Parliament having being convicted of contempt of court.
“First of all, all ministers are entitled to two vehicles and Tuilaepa understands that very well. They are entitled for office works and personal use,” Olo explained.
“Secondly, the vehicle is registered under the government and I have evidence for that which is the one thing they should’ve provided to back up their accusations, evidence.
“I will sue him for defamation because he has put disgrace on my name and that of my family, and literally called me a thief.”
According to the Minister, the vehicle was bought from savings of the Waterfront Project to use the money donated from New Zealand without having to return it.
“The NZD$200,000 savings on the Waterfront Project was used to buy this vehicle and some heavy-duty printers to use the money because it was that same week the money should be returned to New Zealand who donated for the project,” he said.
The Minister explained that when he first took office with the Ministry as Minister, he gave the Landcruiser that was used by the former Minister for the use of his Chief Executive Officer.
That left him with a white Prado vehicle which was not suitable for his off-road visits and inspections so he ordered this second hand Landcruiser.
Olo also clarified that as a Minister, he is entitled to use the vehicle for his personal use which is one of the benefits for Ministers as included in the Government policies.