Trial paused Dec. 1 after prosecutors seek to remove juror linked to defendants’ party; decision delayed until Dec. 2.

The trial of former Speaker Fonati Koffa and six others was paused on December 1, 2025, after prosecutors sought to remove juror Antoinette Mulbah, alleging she lied about ties to the defendants’ party, the CDC, during jury selection. Prosecutors cited a disputed photo showing her at a CDC event, claiming it undermines her impartiality, though political affiliation alone does not disqualify a juror. The defense opposed removal, requesting time to respond, which Judge Roosevelt Z. Willie granted, rescheduling the case for December 2. The judge emphasized that removal requires proof of actual or reasonable bias, not just unverified images or political ties, and previously rejected a similar motion due to lack of authentication. The court has not yet ruled on Mulbah’s removal.