Harvard bound

A 31-year-old Samoan academic, Dr Therese Lautua (Lalomanu, Poutasi, Amaile, Samusu) is moving with her family to Boston Massachusetts after landing a teaching position as a college Fellow in Indigenous Religion at the prestigious Harvard University. According to the University of Auckland, her path to this golden opportunity is through her research journal to help young people in the Pacific. The program she will be joining recognises outstanding scholars who have recently finished their doctoral studies and shown a dedicated focus on teaching in a specialised field.

Fa’ataua le Ola closure leaves gap 

The lack of funding to sustain a non-profitable organisation that offered a 24-hour mental health support service for people with suicidal tendencies has closed after over 20 years. Fa’ataua Le Ola which translates to “value life” is no longer in operation and with that, the suicide prevention line is no longer available. Former chairman Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale said F.L.O. had saved hundreds of lives over the 20 years and he is hopeful that a new group might step in and continue the work.    

Afega ordered to stop work

The Supreme Court has issued interim orders to temporarily cease clearance work by Afega in Leauvaa This work was being done after orders from the Lands and Titles Court granted Afega ownership of the disputed land. Furthermore, Chief Justice Satiu Simativa Perese said the interim orders were until the hearing into orders sought by the village of Leauvaa and issues relating to the jurisdiction of the two-headed judiciary are dealt with.

Regulator issues E.P.C. ultimatum

The Electric Power Corporation has until next Monday to provide the required information to the Office of the Regulator on tariff calculations, outstanding license fees and updates on the implementation of smart meters. The General Manager of E.P.C. Faumui Iese Toimoana confirmed that the corporation is actively engaged in compiling the requisite reports to fulfil the Regulator’s directive.

Former LTC president gets pay

The Supreme Court granted orders for further payment to the former president of the Lands and Titles Court as per ruling pending the hearing of the substantial matter against his dismissal. The Appellant Court made orders to pay Letufuga Atila Ropati a lump sum equivalent to salary and allowances for nine months with leave reserved for him to apply to the Supreme Court for declaration as to additional payment should the substantive litigation not be resolved within three months.

Samoa ditching coach leaves ‘sour taste’

Former All Blacks first five-eighth Lima Sopoaga has launched a broadside at the Samoa Rugby Union’s top brass saying the abrupt end of Seilala Mapusua’s head coaching tenure leaves a ‘sour taste’ and international stars may now reconsider their test futures. Mapusua was contracted until the end of 2024 but this week was replaced by former Chiefs hooker and national captain Mahonri Schwalger. Sopoaga acknowledged Samoa fell short in their quest to reach the knockout stages but he took aim at casting Mapusua aside.

Ex-banker jailed for Samoa’s record theft

A former bank manager has been sentenced to over six years imprisonment for a record theft of $1.2 million, the biggest amount ever stolen in Samoa. Seira Malifa, a 39-year-old single mother of four from Nuu pleaded guilty to 306 charges of theft as a servant, the majority of the theft done during the time the defendant was Apia Branch manager from July 2019 to November 2022. Senior Justice Nelson noted there was no apology nor restitution made by the defendant for the stolen money.

Family loses all in Papauta fire

A family in Papauta has been left with nothing but the clothes on their backs after a fire raced through their home. Tanoa’i expressed his gratitude to the neighbourhood volleyball players for getting the family’s 76 –year-old matriarch out of the house. The fire is thought to have started from a mosquito coil.

Board clears SNPF chair   

An internal investigation conducted by the Samoa National Provident Fund Board and Grievances Committee has cleared the Board chairman of allegations raised against him by senior managers. However, a separate inquiry into specific decisions and actions of the chairman and led by the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Public Enterprise is ongoing.

Charged MP to jet out

A Samoan parliamentarian facing a pending court case has been nominated to join Samoa’s delegation to a parliamentary gathering in Wellington, New Zealand. The man in question is the former Associate Minister of Police and MP for Salega No.1 Fepuleai Faimata Sua who faces 18 individual and joint charges including perverting the course of justice and conspiracy to commit an offence.   

Fifth in the Pacific for women in parliament

Samoa ranks fifth among the Pacific countries regarding the proportion of parliamentary seats held by women according to statistics on Gender Equality in the Pacific Data Hub. In 2023, Samoa saw an increase in the percentage of seats held by women in the national parliament rising to 13 per cent rising from eight per cent in the previous year. Despite this improvement, Samoa still lags behind French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Cook Islands and Niue.

Regulator: Starlink not open to all

The Regulator Lematua Gisa Fuatai Purcell said the official approval for the operation of Space X’s Starlink satellite services in Samoa is limited to school projects and health centres. The Cabinet has approved Space X’s Starlink satellite to operate in the country.

Abduction from a park

A 19-year-old was charged for allegedly abducting a seven-year-old girl from a public park and attacking her sexually while her family and the Police frantically searched for her. The incident was described as horrific and traumatising for the young victim. The young man from Vaimoso and Falevao has been charged and is in custody until his court appearance.

Another Pago boat under investigation

A boat from American Samoa that transported several passengers and a dead body to Samoa is facing questions because some of the passengers had not obtained proper travel documents before crossing borders.  According to the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Customs, Fonoti Talaitupu Lia Taefu, the boat in question ‘Double Shot’ did not have paperwork for some of those on board which is why the Ministry of Work Transport and Infrastructure seized it.

SNPF board in legal move against Observer

The Samoa National Provident Fund Board is seeking legal redress against the Samoa Observer for disclosing information containing the approval of $67 million to six businesses. This was part of an internal inquiry report by the S.N.P.F.’s Grievance Committee. The report also stated, “The unlawful disclosure of confidential information relating to its clients' loans has exposed S.N.P.F. potentially to several lawsuits from S.N.P.F. clients.”

Bluewave to partner with Space X

The selection of Bluewave Wireless to partner with Space X's Starlink satellite services has come as a surprise to many including a local telecommunications company that had bid for a tender that would lead to this partnership. The Regulator Lematua Gisa Fuatai Purcell said there was no tender process. “The requirements given to Space X were that they should have a local partner to roll out because our small staff can’t do so.”    

Contempt application against Afega

The latest action by Afega to continue to work on the land in dispute before the courts has triggered a contempt of court application from Leauvaa for violating interim orders to cease work. Clearance work from Afega on Thursday comes at the back of orders issued by the Supreme Court on Tuesday to stop enforcing eviction orders from the Land and Titles Court on families.

‘Kite Runner’ probe reveals missing log

The Senate Select Investigative Committee reconvened last week to question Faiai Foleni Faiai, the captain of the controversial boat, ‘Kite Runner’ from American Samoa. Faiai testified that although he claimed all trip details were recorded in a log book, the vessel owned by Papalii Laulii Alofa and arranged by Letitia Tish Peau did not possess one. When questioned further he admitted to purchasing a makeshift log book for the Samoa trip which mysteriously disappeared thereafter.

Mase plans ahead

Manu Samoa Head Coach, Mase Mahonri Schwalger says while he is disappointed Vaovasamanaia Seilala Mapusua’s contract with Lakapi Samoa finished earlier than it should have, he is excited about his new role and looks forward to taking Manu Samoa in a new direction. “I love the guy. He’s done so much for this country and he’s done so much for this jersey so I wish him all the best.”

Woman shot in the head

A 21-year-old nurse is currently fighting for her life at the Moto’otua National Hospital after sustaining a gunshot injury to her head which the Police say is related to domestic violence. The young woman was rushed to the hospital in a taxi by two men before doctors informed the the Police. Deputy Police Commissioner Papalii Monalisa Tiai-Keti confirmed that the 21-year-old is married and the Police are urging the two men who brought her to the hospital to visit the Police Station to provide more information and help with the investigation.

Waterfront hotel offers 200 jobs

The hotel dubbed the “Grand Old Lady” at Vaisigano is promising more than 200 jobs when it opens its doors in July after being closed for more than three years. Major renovation work for the iconic Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel and Bungalows are underway. The hotel’s Managing Director, Frank Lu said the renovations are expected to be complete in June and a soft opening is planned for July.     

Jail without trial 

The Attorney General’s office has been instructed to investigate how a man facing sexual charges has been detained in custody for four years yet his matter has not been dealt with. Faraimo Wright appeared the Senior Supreme Court Judge Justice Vui Clarence Nelson and was not represented by a lawyer. It is understood that the case file for Mr Wright fell off the Court list and led to his lengthy detainment in custody.

Arrest warrant issued for Afoa

The District Court has issued a warrant of arrest for the former head of the Samoa Triathlon Federation, Afoa Seti Afoa after he failed to appear in court. Afoa is charged with obtaining by deception and attempting to obtain by deception. The allegations are related to money provided by the International Federation that was not put into the sporting body’s accounts.  

MOH doctors warned

The doctors currently employed by the Ministry of Health have been instructed to abstain from pursuing secondary employment. The call was made after doctors rostered to work at the government hospitals were working at private clinics.

Sewage leaks inside hospital

Parents and caregivers at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital at Motootua have expressed dismay over the sewage leaks in the Acute 8 ward. A visit to the hospital reveals a myriad of other health problems as well as leaks namely mould, spider webs inside air conditioning units, broken doors and toilets and malfunctioning air conditioning systems.   

Undelivered promises say matai   

High chiefs from Salelologa did not mince words during a meeting at Fuifatu, Salelologa with the government’s Steering Committee to assess progress on projects funded through the $1 million district development initiative. In the line of fire was La’auli Leuatea Schmidt who was pointedly reminded of pre-election promises he had allegedly made and not honoured. Matai Pipi Sa referenced a pledge by La’auli regarding lease payments which were earmarked for development and enquired about the promised $3 million while expressing disappointment over lack of progress.

Dengue outbreak

The Ministry of Health has declared a Dengue Fever outbreak after a continuous increase in the number of cases reported to the hospital. Director General of Health Dr Alec Ekeroma said there had been 81 cases reported in the first two weeks of April bringing the total to 216 confirmed cases since November 2023. He said the north-west of Upolu is the most affected area and will be given priority in terms of fumigation and clean up.

Lessons learned: H.R.P.P. 

Opposition leader, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi is adamant that mistakes made in the last election will not be repeated in 2026. While statistics showed that 60 per cent of eligible voters were in favour of HRPP he ruefully acknowledged that fielding multiple candidates for a single seat fragmented the party’s support base and diluted its electoral strength.

Tuasivi morgue gets new life

After weeks of being non-operational, the government-owned morgue at Tuasivi Hospital should be back in service this week according to the Director General of Health Dr Alec Ekeroma. As well as dealing with malfunctioning refrigeration units there are also issues with the general deterioration of the building specifically the leaking roof.

Businessman seeks legal action

A businessman accused of defaulting on a $10 million loan from the Samoa National Provident Fund has started looking at legal challenge against the Fund’s chairman Papalii Panoa Moala. Papalii, while on suspension pending an investigation into grievances reported by senior managers had been allegedly making comments regarding the failure of the businessman to pay the loan.  

Samoa out of Australia quota

Samoa has been excluded from a list of countries that can apply under a new visa category in Australia that allows skilled workers and their families to apply for permanent residence. Samoa and Kiribati are the only Pacific islands that participate under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme where citizens are not eligible to apply for the new permanent residence visa.

Murder suspect challenges confession 

A man charged with the double murder of a father and son challenged the statement he made to the Police after he allegedly admitted to the offending. Auia Fereti Moefiti of Foagapoa made the voir dire application through his lawyer Alex Sua when the matter was due for an assessor trial. The defendant had turned himself in to the Tuasivi Police outpost with what was suspected to be the murder weapon immediately after the incident.

Where is our road?

Residents of Moamoa have reminded the Government of unfulfilled promises to construct their road, Close to 30 families live in an area called Moamoa i le Mauga near the Catholic church where the dirt road has deteriorated and caused damage to family cars. Resident, Mrs Tupe Lauti said she is tired of the many empty promises from election candidates and Government. Mrs Lauti said she doesn’t blame taxis for refusing to drive up the road but it is unsafe with children having to walk on the uneven surface in rainy weather and when it is getting dark. The M.P. for Faleata No 1 Manuleleua Paletasala Tovale wasn’t available to comment.

Scholarship relief for 19 medical students

To fill the shortage of doctors in the country, all Samoan students who meet the entry criteria for medical study at the Oceania University of Medicine (O.U.M.) will have their study fully paid. The scholarship covers the annual $47,000 tuition fee for the four-and-a-half-year medical studies. This call has been made as the National University of Samoa has deregistered students for being unable to pay their tuition. The scholarships will be funded by Taffy Gould, the founder of OUM and chair of the OUM Council    

Savaia gets first cruise ship

The MS National Geographic Orion cruise ship took a first-of-its- kind trip away from Apia, to explore the waters of Savaia, Lefaga on Monday visiting the home of the Giant Clams Sanctuary. The vessel, registered in the Bahamas made a quick stop at Savaia on its way to its next destination. The sanctuary features a nursery for clams with some over 30 years old. Some 67 passengers were taken ashore and spent more than three hours enjoying the experience with the villagers.

Rest in love Sister Emanuela

The Samoan community is mourning the loss of a beloved educator and Sister of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (S.M.S.M.) who peacefully passed away at the age of 91. Her legacy of service and dedication to education and the Catholic faith, have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many who were recipients of the profound impact she made.

Remembering the sacrifices for peace

The annual A.N.Z.A.C. (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) memorial service was observed in the early hours of Thursday morning commemorating the valor of the soldiers in battle in World War 1. The Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa delivered the Keynote Address in which she emphasized the importance of honouring and remembering sacrifices made by servicemen and women including Samoans, who secured the freedom and way of life we enjoy to this day. Others to attend included Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga from American Samoa, himself a veteran.

Plans to restore court structure

The views of the judiciary have been sought on proposed amendments to reverse major changes to the structure of the court system and revert to a unified judiciary headed by the Chief Justice. This would put an end to the current parallel judicial system. The letter was sent out by the Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Justice, Court and Administration, Papalii John Taimalelagi and also copied to the Prime Minister, the Minister for Justice, Court and Administration and the Attorney General Sua Hellene Wallwork.

School rugby turns ugly 

A week-long rugby competition has ended on a sour note with the U18’s final game between St Josephs and Amoa Colleges. The aggressors blamed the referee who they claimed allowed the game to go over time thereby allowing Amoa College to win. Eyewitnesses said that rocks, empty bottles and sticks were thrown and threats made to the referee. It is alleged that a Lakapi Samoa van was smashed with most of its windows shattered.

A.C.E.O. suspended

The Assistant Chief Executive Officer for Governance in the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, Latu Afioga has been suspended while the Public Service Commission looks into allegations made against him. They stem from staff and include accusations of abuse of power.

34 new dengue fever cases

The Ministry of Health has confirmed 34 new cases this week bringing the total to 250. This follows a cleanup campaign held on Friday to reduce the population of mosquitoes, particularly in public spaces. The most vulnerable age groups are those under 10 years or over 60 years.

Chong Nee: Five years on the run

Serial burglar and robber, Pati Chong Nee has now been on the run for over five years and could have fled the country, according to the Police Commissioner Papalii Auapaau Logoitino Filipo.  After breaking out of prison in 2019, various theories have been put forward about his whereabouts including his possible death in a secluded part of the country, or that he assumed another identity and relocated to American Samoa. Papalii said investigations are still ongoing.

Police continue gunshot investigation

Police are continuing their investigation into an incident where a young woman was brought into the hospital with a gunshot wound to her head. This follows speculation that the reported domestic violence incident stemmed from a connection to drugs. The Police are also seeking the two men who escorted the woman to the hospital in a taxi.   

Concern over NUS students’ failures

The release of a purported list of at-risk students has raised questions about the university’s strategies for assisting these individuals and addressing their academic needs. The Vice Chancellor of the National University of Samoa, Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa said for those facing difficulties, Course Coordinators provide academic counseling sessions. She also underscored the university’s commitment to provide comprehensive support to help students improve their performance.

Compiled by Marjorie Moore