Tonga’s Prime Minister Rev. Dr. Pohiva Tu’i’onetoa has approved a request by the Minister for Infrastructure and Tourism, ‘Akosita Lavulavu to take leave until a decision of the Court of Appeal is delivered regarding her court case.
The Prime Minister’s Office issued a brief statement yesterday saying Lauvalu's request for leave was approved.
Lavulavu and her husband Etuate were found guilty of fraud earlier this month.
They were convicted for using student numbers they knew were false to apply for government grants.
The Lavulavu’s incorrectly received more than US$250,000 when they owned and operated the 'Unuaki 'o Tonga Royal Institute.
The court found the funds did not make it to the school.
The couple will be sentenced on 2 July.
Photo file RNZ Pacific Caption Akosita Lavulavu, Minister for Infrastracture and Tourism