Prime Minister La'aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt says he is sad and hurt after Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo lost his seat. He said he accepted the decision of the Electoral Court.

He also hinted at taking over the Ministry of Work, Transport and Infrastructure portfolio.

On Tuesday, the court declared Toelupe's election void after ruling that he had been involved in bribery during the general election.

"I feel for Toelupe," he said on Wednesday.

"This is not easy and light to me as the Prime Minister because Toelupe was my right-hand man and also a senior minister in the cabinet."

"It hurts me to see the decision from the court but I respect the decision."

La'aulialemalietoa said he will await the arrival of Toelupe from overseas and the caucus will discuss further plans.

"It's not easy because Toelupe was overseeing one of the biggest ministries, which means the workload he used to carry will be on my shoulders," the Prime Minister said.

"I send my sympathy not only to the constituency, the families and especially to Toelupe, his wife and children." 

La'aulialemalietoa said the caucus will discuss further plans, including whether Toelupe can run again in future elections.

"The cabinet and the political party will discuss this matter. I tell you, I can feel for Toelupe that losing his seat is painful."

Falealili No.1 is now ready to go back to the polls.