23 Feb 2015

Former Samoa minister wants conviction dismissed

7:30 pm on 23 February 2015

Former Samoa cabinet minister, Muagututagata Peter Ah Him, is seeking the dismissal of criminal charges without conviction.

Former Samoa MP Muagututagata Peter Ah Him, convicted of forgery, speaking to his lawyer outside court.

Muagututagata Peter Ah Him speaks to his lawyer outside court Photo: RNZI / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia

Muagututagata, who resigned from parliament suddenly last week, was found guilty last month on two charges of forgery, following a complaint by the Chinese company in which he is a shareholder.

He was in court today for a pre-sentencing hearing.

His lawyer has called for the charges to be dismissed, a probation report suggested a substantial fine and the prosecution is seeking a substantial jail term.