Lord (Feleti) Sevele, a former Prime Minister of Tonga and the current chair of the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) has officially filed an appeal to the Court of Appeal regarding the recent verdict in his defamation case against Kelekolio Tapueluelu, Kele’a Radio and Vilisoni Tu’iniua Ngalu. Sevele expressed dissatisfaction with the decision made by the jury which ruled against him in his claim for defamation. He also sought for compensation of $200,000.
The defamation charges stemmed from a radio broadcast that aired on October 18, 2022 on Kele’a Radio. During this program, hosted by Vilisoni and Kolio, statements were made that Sevele contended were damaging to his reputation. Specifically, Kolio discussed a matter related to gold alleging to have involved Sevele. Kolio claimed his statements were based on fact.
The jury, however, reached a verdict on September 11, 2024 after a six-week trial, concluding that Sevele did not provide sufficient evidence to substantiate the claims required under the defamation act.
Sevele’s witnesses included Polutele Tu’ihalamaka, Ian Tu’ihalangingie, Ha’ofanga Pahulu, Tapinga Lavemaau, and Tonga Fonua. On the other hand, Vilisoni served as his own witness while Kele’a Radio brought Teisa Cokanasiga and Siaosi Pohiva as witnesses.
Following the jury’s decision, Sevele submitted his appeal last Saturday, signaling his intent to contest the verdict. The legal representatives for Kele’a Radio and Vilisoni Tu’iniua are Lawyers Fitilangi Fa’anunu and Fanga Afu, while Kolio chose to represent himself during the trial.
Teisa Cokanasiga, the Manager of Kele’a Radio, expressed gratitude for the support received from the community throughout this legal battle. In her remarks, she admitted to having concerns about the trial’s outcome, fearing that if Sevele won he could potentially take over the radio station. Cokanasiga highlighted the financial limitations of Kele’a Radio, stating that they would struggle to pay the $200,000 compensation if the court ruled in favor of Sevele.
Cokanasiga also acknowledged the prayers and support from listeners and community members emphasizing how crucial this backing was during the trial
In appeals related to jury verdicts, it is vital that the focus remains on procedural issues rather than re-evaluating the evidence presented in the initial trial. This principle is essential for ensuring fairness and integrity in the legal process. Supreme Court Judge Cooper was judge of the proceedings.
