Samoa opposition accuses government ministers of unlawful election campaigns

The Tautua Samoa opposition party has called on the Electoral office to look into what it believes is an unlawful election campaign by the government.

Tautua leader, Palusalue Fa'apo II, has accused the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment as well as the Minister of Education of using public money and resources on government activities in their constituencies, for the purpose of influencing voters.

Palusalue told reporters the current laws are very clear on corrupt practices and influencing voters.

He says his party cannot challenge the practice in court because Tautua Samoa has no money.

The allegations centre around the Environment week programme for Savai'i which was held in one of the villages of the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment constituency.

Palusalue says public money was used in several activities such as floral floats competition and traditional activities.

Meanwhile the Minister of Education's village will be hosting an 'ava ceremony for the USP graduation, which will be held in Savai'i for the first time.

Palusalue says the main purpose of having these events in the two ministers' constituencies, just 3 months before the general election, is to influence voters.

RNZI