Probe into missing fund completed

The investigation report into allegations of misappropriation of funds against the Member of Parliament for Fa’asaleleaga No 2 is before the Steering Committee for its decision. The Ministry of Finance was tasked to investigate accusations against its Associate Minister Magele Sekati Fiaui and a district committee member about a missing $175,000 from the $1 million development fund.

More funds for hospital and medical scheme

The high demand for overseas treatment has seen an increase in the grant for it as well as a $1 million refurbishment fund to renovate the concerning state of Moto’otua Hospital which was built in 2011.

Vaimoso celebrates independence glory

Despite the government scaling down this year’s Independence Day celebration, Vaimoso, where the Mau began leading up to Samoa’s Independence in 1962, has not let the occasion go by without acknowledging the past. They organised a parade, flag-raising and entertainment from schools and churches.

Couple seeks justice

Kaino and Steffi Thomsen-Fuata’i, lost their first-born Adira in March 2022 at the National Hospital. They continue to seek justice for her death. The couple believe they lost their child through the negligence of the medical staff on duty that day. Their journey, marked by profound grief and a quest for accountability has led them to file a civil claim against the proprietor of the Health Specialist Centre at Moto’otua and the Ministry of Health. Undeterred by having their case struck out on technical grounds, the couple has appealed this decision seeking a review by the Court of Appeal.

Glider unlicensed: Police

A motor glider which crashed into the sea off the coast of Vaitele killing the pilot, was unlicensed. Auapaau Logoitino Filipo, Police Commissioner said the matter had been referred to the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure who told him they had been reminding the owner to license the craft, but it had not been done.

Samoa 7’s relegated 

The Manu Samoa 7’s team will not be part of the World 7s Series Core Competition after failing to make the top four of the promotion-relegation tournament in Madrid last week. The team lost all their matches, three pool games and then the play-off against the USA.

CJ proposes new court structure

Chief Justice Satiu Simativa Perese has proposed to change the name of the current Supreme Court to the High Court and have the Supreme Court as the apex court in the country superseding all courts.

Remember her life not her death

The family of a retired University of Hawaii professor who was murdered in Samoa, wants her remembered for how she lived, and not how she died. Professor Caroline Sinaviana-Gabbard was allegedly slain by Samoan playwright and author, Papalii Sia Figiel in what was described as a gruesome crime. She was the aunt of former United States congresswoman, Tulsi Gabbard and the sister of State Senator Mike Gabbard.

Lifters eye Paris medals

Weightlifters Don Opeloge and Iuniarra Sipaia are undergoing vigorous training in order to bring back a medal from the Olympic Games in Paris in July. Opeloge and Sipaia both topped their divisions at the Oceania Elite International tournament held recently in Melbourne, Australia. Both Opeloge and Sipaia are ranked in the top eight in the world.

Three identified to be in contempt of court

The Supreme Court heard on Wednesday that Ututaaloga Charlie Ulia, Ken Ulia and Maulolo Tavita Amosa were identified as being in contempt of court. The village of Leauvaa filed the contempt of court application against villagers of Afega in the ongoing land dispute between the two villages.  

Family in fear after attack

A Faleula family is living in fear after Molotov cocktails were allegedly thrown at their home destroying their properties in a massive blaze on Wednesday night. The fire at the residence of the Pese Uele family destroyed a storage house, garage and five vehicles including three heavy trucks. According to bystanders, the scene was chaotic with bottles and rocks being thrown at the house making it unsafe for anyone to approach.

Sola and young scoop five medals at oceania

Samoa’s five silver medals at the 2024 Oceania Athletics Championships were won by 47-year-old hammer thrower Shaka Sola and 53-year-old runner Darren Young, demonstrating that age is just a number.  Young said, “I hope Shaka’s and my achievements can help motivate more of our people to keep going with their sport no matter what age.”

MP and wife charged with assault 

The Police have charged the Member of Parliament for Sagaga No 1 Loau Keneti Sio and his wife Malama Sio with assault, making threats and being armed. The charges followed an alleged incident earlier in the week involving an internal family dispute that escalated dramatically. The Pese Uele family has alleged that a fire that destroyed their property and five cars was a consequence of the dispute. Si’u Taito speaking on behalf of the Pese Uele family in Faleula, alleged that Loau attacked his wife, sister-in-law and niece. The altercation saw all three women being taken to hospital.

Apia port closed for CHOGM

The Apia International Port will be closed to all incoming and departing ships from 19-26 October. The temporary closure is to accommodate the cruise liner, Pacific Explorer which will host some of the 6000 guests attending the CHOGM meeting in Samoa.

Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital unsafe 

Research conducted by Victoria University in New Zealand shows Samoa’s national hospital is deteriorating and poses significant health risks to the public. The study was organised by the National University of Samoa and the South Pacific Regional Environment Program. While the Ministry of Health Director General would not comment on specifics without reading the report he said, “Blocked toilets and other damage may be due to the ageing infrastructure, abuse or careless use and delayed maintenance.”  

Court denies costs to Kiwi accountant

The Court of Appeal declared that David Ross Petterson, a forensic accountant and insolvency practitioner from Levin, the second respondent from New Zealand is not entitled to indemnity concerning the costs and disbursements incurred in legal proceedings in the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal. The matter involved Petterson the appellant and Chan Mow and Company Limited, the major creditor of Progressive Insurance Company Limited which is currently in liquidation. The second respondent, Progressive Insurance, has been under scrutiny due to questionable operations led by its former controller, Murray Drake.

Faleula chiefs look for arsonists

The Faleula village council has launched an investigation to identify those responsible for the fire that devastated a family’s property last week. The incident not only damaged the property but also stirred up deep-seated emotions and community discord. The chain of events appears to have started when visiting relatives from Australia made demands about certain land issues.

$3 million loss to rugby

Manu Samoa 7’s relegation from the World Sevens Series has resulted in a SAT$3 million dent in the already financially struggling Lakapi Samoa. Samoa failed to win any of their games in the relegation tournament in Madrid. Lakapi Samoa Chief Executive Officer Faleomavaega Vincent Fepuleai said the Union loses out on World Rugby grants and also sponsorship.

First licensed crossfit competition

More than 100 competitors are expected in the first licensed CrossFit competition, “Throwdown”. The competition organised by Tuiloma Walterlee Imo and his wife, has also garnered international attention. Teams from New Zealand and American Samoa are competing as well as from other local gyms.

A.C.O.P.A. acknowledges former students

The Avele College Old Pupils Association paid tribute to the remarkable accomplishments of former students during the college’s centennial celebrations. The school officially opened in 1924 as an agriculture school attracting boys from Niue, Tokelau, the Cook Islands, Tuvalu and Tonga. As a former Avele student, the Kings representative of the Cook Islands, Sir Tom Marsters was given the honour of cutting the ribbon of the new hall which was completed this year.

Registration for 2026 elections on track

Electoral Commissioner, Tuiafelolo John Stanley is optimistic about the ongoing re-registration of eligible voters in Samoa ensuring they are ready for the 2026 elections. Tuiafelolo emphasized a targeted re-registration figure of 117,000 eligible voters for the 2026 election inclusive of those turning 21 by then. The registration deadline is set for the end of September 2025 ensuring ample opportunity for eligible individuals to participate in the democratic process.

Archbishop’s ordination set for August

The Catholic community in Samoa is preparing for a significant event as the Episcopal consecration of the newly-elected Archbishop for Samoa, Father Mosese Vitolio Tui is set to take place in August. Father Mosese was ordained as a priest in 1994 and has had an impressive service record as a principal at various Don Bosco Colleges and as a parish priest at the St Francis de Sales Parish in Salelologa and St Paul Parish in Massey and Ranui, West Auckland.

Anti-corruption body coming soon

An entity to look into corrupt practices in government will be set up soon as the first National Anti-Corruption Policy and Strategy was officially launched at the Tanoa Hotel. The Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa in cutting the ribbon said that the next step is to ensure early implementation and adequate resourcing of the implementers so that they can effectively operate independently without fear of reprisals or intimidation in the course of their roles and responsibilities.

Forty one new police officers welcomed 

The Congregational Christian Church of Samoa Hall was a scene of celebration as the Samoa Police, Prisons and Correction Services welcomed 41 new members. The diverse cohort comprising 20 men and 21 women recently completed the rigorous Samoa Police Basic Recruit Course before being sworn in on 27 May. Minister of Police Faualo Harry Schuster underscored the enduring importance of embodying the I-C-A-R-E values: Integrity, Courage, Accountability, Respect and Empathy.

Information law in the works

A framework to protect freedom of information and whistleblowers who reveal corruption and abuse of power will eventually lead to the formation of the Freedom of Information Act. The Chief Executive Officer of the Public Service Commission, Kolone Tikeri said they have been working together with the Ministry of Communication Information and Technology on the ongoing process to enable a framework.

Pay rise for top officials approved     

The Samoan government has approved significant salary increases for its top officials effective from the upcoming fiscal year. The new salary increases show that the Head of State is still the highest paid official in the land with a base salary of $200,000 and allowances of $20,000. The Cabinet has also approved an increase in the salary packages for members of Samoa’s judiciary.

Tafaomalo is NZ’s first Pacific dean of law

Tafaomalo Professor Leilani Tuala-Warren has been appointed the new Dean of Te Piringa, Faculty of Law at Waikato University while retaining a temporary judicial warrant as a Supreme Court Justice in Samoa. Before her elevation to the Supreme Court in Samoa, she pioneered the establishment of the Family Court and the Family Violence Court, an outstanding initiative in the Pacific.        

$7 million left to pay

Samoa Airways debt stands at $7 million after clearing $78 million in just over a year. At the beginning of 2023, the airline owed $85 million. Chief Executive Officer of Samoa Airways, Fauo’o Fati Tielu said the company is coping well after owing millions to non-governmental and governmental agencies for years.

Manusina eye Olympic spot

The Manusina Sevens are hoping to clinch a spot for the Olympic Games as they head to the last qualifiers in Monaco in France. Coach Fuimaono Aumatagi Pomare says his team is up against Argentina, Kenya and Papua New Guinea.

Man dies in Savaii gunfight

A dispute between two villages is allegedly the reason for the death of a man in Savaii after he was killed in an exchange of gunfire. Preliminary reports from Police have confirmed the deceased was from Samata and was around 35-40 years old. Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino said the conflict was between the villages of Samata and Fagafau and is believed to have been caused by a decision about land by the Lands and Titles Court.

L.T.C. president’s removal unlawful

After being removed from office as the President of the Lands and Titles court 20 months ago, Letufuga Atilla Ropati won his second legal battle in the Supreme Court claiming $750,000 as compensation. Justice Michael Whitten KC found that Leufuga’s removal from office was in breach of the Constitution and therefore unlawful.

$1 million in lump sum

The third allotment of the $1 million district grant could be given in one go according to changes that are likely to happen. According to Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio’o, Minister of Women Community and Development, the Steering Committee has carefully considered feedback from district councils nationwide during recent site visits.

Inquiry to probe claims against La’auli

A special parliamentary inquiry has been set up to look into claims made by an Opposition member that a Cabinet Minister is hiding behind a broadcaster to allegedly defame the courts. Member of Parliament for Safata No.1 Leaana Ronnie Posini submitted in Parliament a file containing evidence of allegations he made against the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries La’auli Leuatea Schmidt.

Ato secures Olympic spot

Boxer Tupuola Seua’i Ato Plodzicki-Faogali is fully focused on an Olympic medal during his time in Samoa this week. Tupuola secured a spot to represent Samoa at the 2024 Olympics after an outstanding victory at the Pacific Games in November. At 25 this will be Tupuola’s second Olympics representing Samoa. He will be fighting in the 92kg category.

Mps raise drug concerns 

There is a concern about the rise in drug-related crimes and MPs are asking what is being done about the importation of methamphetamine. Loau Keneti Sio of Sagaga No.1 highlighted the escalating involvement of youth in drug offences echoing the broader apprehension shared by his peers in Parliament.

Recruiters claim they are in the dark

Some recruiters of workers for seasonal jobs overseas say they are yet to be informed about the new policy which comes into effect in July. One of them is the founder of the Falealili Seasonal Work Programme, Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale. The new policy states there is a registration fee of $1000 for District Councils and $10,000 for private recruiters.

P.M. testifies in lawsuit 

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa testified in the Supreme Court on Monday to respond to a lawsuit by the former Attorney General alleging unfair dismissal. Savalenoa Mareva Betham-Annandale, the former Attorney General is seeking $650,000 for the Prime Minister dismissing her as the leader of the Bar in September 2021. Justice Rhys Harrison presided over the matter.

Regulator reveals Starlink charges

People can now import Space X’s Starlink kits but it could take up to two years to grant a license to Elon Musk’s company as the necessary paperwork has not yet been received. These changes were revealed by the Regulator Lematua Fuatai Gisa Purcell at a public consultation held lately.

Seven charged for Faleula arson

The Police have charged seven men from Faleula for arson who are alleged to have been responsible for burning a family home and property in the village earlier this month. The arson stemmed from a land ownership dispute.

$300K upgrade for royal stay

The Cabinet approved $300,000 to upgrade the accommodation to host King Charles III when he visits Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in October. A Cabinet directive stated that $96,000 was for furniture and fittings, $79,000 for Presidential suite renovations, $20,000 for bathroom additions, $20,000 for water features, $79,000 for the driveway and $10,300 for the entrance roundabout.

China to fix hospital 

The People’s Republic of China has agreed to repair the deteriorating Motootua National Hospital the Minister of Health Valasi Tafito Selesele told Parliament on Thursday. Valasi said a recent meeting with the Ambassador of China to bid farewell to the Chinese medical team led to conversations on the problems that required assistance.

Football CEO status kept “private”

The president of the Football Federation Samoa, Papalii Samuel Petaia has dodged enquiries on the status of the Chief Executive Officer’s employment saying it was “private.” The Samoa Observer wished to know if Galumalemana Ronna Lee was still the Chief Executive Officer after learning she had been served with a letter from the FFS Board and the FFS Technical Director was asked to step in as Acting CEO in her absence.

Teachers salaries under review

A review is underway to adjust teachers’ salaries to attract and keep qualified teachers in the profession instead of losing them to other sectors. A special committee has been set up comprised of the CEO of the Ministry of Education and Culture, the Vice Chancellor of the National University of Samoa and the Public Service Commissioner. The Public Service Commission has allowed students who have a Diploma in Education to join the teaching profession and increase the pool of teachers to assist with the shortage.

S.N.P.F. declares $60.1 million dividend

The Samoa National Provident Fund announced a dividend of 6.6 per cent totaling $60.1 million although only 1.6 per cent will be distributed as a cash payout in July. The Minister of Finance said $45.5 million would go into members’ contributions and he commended the work of the CEO’s leadership, the Board of Directors and the entire staff for their efforts.

Union hails wage increase 

The Samoa First Union commended the Government for raising the minimum wage from $3 to $4 per hour.   Chief Executive Officer Seveaoga Saina Tomi-Setu accepted the decision although they had advocated for an increase to $5 per hour. She also expressed that economic growth, especially post Covid-19 recovery would lead to larger increases. The current increase was based on data from 2018.

Disability benefit starts in July

A monthly benefit available to individuals with disabilities through the Samoa National Provident Fund will start in July. Lemalu Selesitina Meni-Reti, the Chief Executive Officer of S.N.P.F. said the funds originate from the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development but will be administered and distributed through their established system.