Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa reaffirmed during a press conference that the position of Prime Minister can only be vacated through Parliament, emphasising the Legislative Assembly’s exclusive authority in such matters.
FAST supporters criticise Samoa Observer amid Laauli’s charges
The Samoa Observer faced criticism during a gathering outside the main police station in Apia, organised by the Faatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST) party in support of its chairman, Laauli Leuatea Schmidt, who is facing charges. A supporter in the crowd began chanting, “We don’t need the Observer here.”
Meanwhile, former Samoa National Development Party member Vui Masinamua Seinafolava confronted a Samoa Observer photojournalist, pointing directly at them and demanding that all his statements be accurately reported. He warned of legal action if any inaccuracies were published.
Video: Junior S Ami / Samoa Observer
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#BREAKING Laauli quietly entered the police station, where he now faces charges. He arrived in a car bearing a private license plate, unnoticed by many. Meanwhile, across the street on Main Beach Road, a crowd of ruling party supporters dressed in red and black gathered, chanting and singing in solidarity.
Video: Junior S Ami/Samoa Observer
Sharing confidential information for publication carries immense risks, especially in the absence of whistleblower protections. Yet, as the late Sir Harold Evans, the legendary editor of The Times, once reflected, "Every time a journalist is harassed to reveal their source, they should think of the ordeals of Samoa’s Savea Sano Malifa, who would never yield." This enduring principle remains at the heart of the Samoa Observer's mission to safeguard those who courageously speak out.
Read today’s editorial: https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/editorial/112585
Heavy rains in Apia have caused flooding, with blocked drains compounding the issue and leaving vehicles stranded. Video: Junior S Ami / Samoa Observer
The Minister for Health, Valasi Tafito Selesele, criticised the Samoa Observer for using the term "severe" in its coverage of the new hospital hours, despite the word appearing in the Ministry’s own press release. When the Observer pointed this out, the Minister responded, "I don’t believe that."
However, the Ministry’s Chief Executive Officer, Aiono Alec Ekeroma, immediately clarified that the wording did originate from an official ministry notice. He explained that it had not been approved, as both he and the Minister were in Lalomanu at the time.
Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure Olo Fiti Vaai issued a stern warning to Air New Zealand, declaring Faleolo International Airport as his. “That’s my airport,” he said, adding that it is his decision who can land there. “I decide, under my rules, who is allowed to land at my airport at Faleolo,” he said.
Malu is not for fa'afafine says Association
The president of the Fa’afafine Association, Alex Sua, has emphasised that the traditional Samoan malu tattoo is exclusively for women, highlighting that Fa’afafine fully understand their cultural identity and its significance. The president characterised the idea of Fa’afafine receiving malus as a viewpoint primarily held by Samoans abroad.
Video: Junior S Ami/Samoa Observer
Story: https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/112274
Samoan tattooist Su'a Suluape Alaiva'a has condemned the misuse of Samoa's sacred "malu" by other tattooists after a Tongan singer claimed to receive a "Tongan malu." Su'a warns against "selling" the sacred art and vows to protect Samoa's cultural heritage.
Video: Junior S Ami / Samoa Observer
Story: https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/111952
Anthem was not altered
"If anyone is wondering if I added any words to the anthem, the answer is no" - Tanuvasa Fa’amanatu Solomona
Video: Junior S Ami / Samoa Observer
Commonwealth pushes for ocean protection with historic Apia Ocean Declaration
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland discusses the upcoming Apia Ocean Declaration at C.H.O.G.M., highlighting the urgent need for global action to protect oceans from climate change. In an exclusive interview with the Samoa Observer, she emphasises the impact on small island states and the collective responsibility of the Commonwealth's 56 member nations.
Video: Junior S Ami / Samoa Observer
Story: https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/111659
From stage three to survivor: Atelina Mamae's 10-Year battle with breast cancer
Atelina Tuiletufuga Mamae was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2014, a life-altering moment that tested her strength and faith. Ten years later, she shares her journey of survival, urging women to get early check-ups and live healthier lives. With three siblings who are also cancer survivors and one lost to the disease, Mrs. Mamae thanks God for the gift of life every day. Now 70, she continues to run her family pot plant business and celebrates the milestones she never thought she would see.
Video: Junior S Ami / Samoa Observer
Story: https://www.samoaobserver.ws/category/samoa/111613
