The Human Rights Protection Party has lost another seat in the electoral petitions with the Member-elect for the Aleipata-Itupa-i-Lalo constituency, Fiugalu Eteuati found guilty of bribery and treating allegations by the Supreme Court.

The Court ruled on Monday that the 13 allegations of bribery and treating leveled against the H.R.P.P. Member-elect were proven beyond reasonable doubt during the proceedings.

The proceedings were presided over by Justice Niava Mata Tuatagaloa and Justice Lesatele Rapi Vaai. 

Consequently, a by-election will now be held for the Aleipata-Itupa-i-Lalo constituency.

Five charges that the Member-elect had levelled against the petitioner, Tafua Maluelue Tafua were also dismissed by the Court. 

Fiugalu’s election victory was taken to court and successfully challenged by Tafua, who also contested under the H.R.P.P. banner during the April elections.

The guilty verdict by the Court and the subsequent order for a by-election is another blow to the H.R.P.P. and the number of constituency seats it currently has. 

This is a developing story.