Dr Tu’i Uata, the Minister of Trade and Economic Development is facing charges of neglecting to obey and refusal to obey the Port Master’s direction in regards to the mooring of two vessels, MV Pulupaki and MV Punalei.

The Minister is charged as a representative of the owner (Uata Shipping) together with his brother ‘Etuate.

The Prosecution confirmed the charges are in relation to their non-compliance with directions of the Port Master dated June 13 and June 15, 2018. 

The case is that the vessels were berthed inside Faua Wharf and the Ports Authority moved them to Tu’imatamoana Wharf. Then Uata moved them back to Faua. Ports told them (Uata's) to move the vessels to Pangaimotu but they did not comply, which resulted in these charges.

The case was called this morning, April 8 at the Magistrate’s Court in Fasi but only ‘Etuate Uata appeared. The case was adjourned to next week.

Meanwhile, unlike the Trade Minister's no show, the Minister of Justice Vuna Fa’otusia who is charged over a stolen cow dispute, did appear at the same lower court this morning.

He is charged with wrongful interference with the course of justice and using threatening language to police officers.

The cow row occured in January this year.

His case was adjourned to Monday, April 15 where he is expected to make a response in regards to the charges laid against him.