22-year-old Livai Ratabua convicted of murder causing the death of 27- year-old Maciu Bakani three years ago has been sentenced to life imprisonment.

Judge Salesi Temo says the accused was reckless in causing the death of Bakani.

In January 2013, Ratabua and the deceased were drinking together when he repeatedly stomped and kicked him several times after an argument.

Ratabua will have to serve a minimum jail term of 15 years before a pardon is considered.