The Samoa Alliance of Media Practitioners for Development (S.A.M.P.O.D) has called for a stop to the online abuse of Samoan journalists as the political crisis continues. 

"We express our deep concern over the escalating online harassment and threats targeting Samoan journalists on social media, covering the current political crisis," said S.A.M.P.O.D in a statement on Sunday. 

"These attacks undermine press freedom and pose a serious threat to the safety and well-being of journalists who are fulfilling their critical role in informing the public about matters of national importance.

"Samoan journalists have received death threats and threats to their family members and properties for reporting on the political crisis, primarily on Facebook through public and private forums and in private messages. We unequivocally deplore such harassment and call on all relevant leaders to take immediate action by urging their followers and supporters to respect the essential role of the press."

They believe a free and independent press is fundamental for any democratic country. They are the eyes and ears of the public. Their responsibility includes holding the Government accountable for their actions. 

"Threats and intimidation against journalists are, in essence, attacks on the fourth estate and democracy itself. We further call on the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), UNESCO and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) for their support in addressing these alarming developments in Samoa. International solidarity is vital in ensuring the safety and independence of journalists working in volatile political climates," said the body.

"We also express our disappointment with Facebook’s continued lack of response to repeated requests for the removal of harmful and threatening content targeting journalists. Social media platforms have a responsibility to protect users, particularly when such content directly threatens press freedom. 

Facebook’s inaction is a troubling failure to safeguard the values of free expression and accountability that it claims to uphold. We reaffirm Samoan journalists' right to report without fear of harassment or intimidation. We urge the Samoan government, political leaders, civil society, and the international community to support measures to ensure the safety of local journalists, and foster an environment where they can report without fear."

The Chair of Faatuatua Samoa ua Tasi (F.A.S.T) party, La'auli Leuatea Schmidt during his press conference on Monday has urged the media industry to report on facts and be independent in their reports.

"You have heard everything I say to our supporters to go easy on the language used. But I also ask you (media) to report on facts and not make-up stories. Don't create drama, stay in line with your code and ethics," he said. 

"Don't take sides and be biased in your reporting because that's where all these comes up. The supporters are not dumb. But I believe if you do your job, and don't cross the line then it will be balance for all parties. No more fake pages where other people are hiding from."