District Court Judge Talasa Atoa-Saaga has adjourned her decision on the high-profile conspiracy case involving Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt and five others to 20 March.

Judge Atoa-Saaga said she knows the country, and that the families of the defendants and the defendants themselves are keen to know the decision, and it's not easy for them to wait.

"The final submissions delivered by all counsel make it a difficult task to review, and that's why I need an extra time to finish writing my decision," she said.

"I hope you all understand the reasons for the adjournment, and before you all go today, please remember me in your prayers." 

Laaulialemalietoa, Fepuleai Faimata Sua, Fataumalama Lio, Lise-Marie Schmidt, Sam Sua, and Sivai Kepi are all facing conspiracy and defamation charges.

The charges include conspiracy to pervert the course of justice, fabricating evidence, and defamation. The trial, which concluded in June 2025, centres on allegations of framing opposition politicians regarding a 2021 hit-and-run incident.