The Minister for Public Enterprises, Leatinu'u Wayne So'oialo denied allegations made by the chairman and leader of the Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (F.A.S.T.) party La'auli Leuatea Schmidt regarding the administration of the "FASTGovt" Facebook page. 

The exchange has sparked fresh debate over the separation of party and government communications in Samoa.

The controversy emerged when La'auli voiced concerns during a press briefing on Friday afternoon, criticising cabinet members and expelled party members for establishing and operating the "FASTGovt" social media page. 

He argued that there is no such entity as a "FAST government," emphasising that cabinet members should use official government platforms for public announcements rather than creating a separate identity.

"There is only the FAST party," La'auli asserted. 

"If they wish to make announcements and press releases on government decisions, they have the official government pages for that purpose. Once you become the government of the day, you represent Samoa—not just the party. It is the government for the people of Samoa, not just the FAST party. There is no such thing as the FASTGovt." 

La'auli urged the administrators of the "FASTGovt" page to respect the distinction between government and party affairs.

He insisted that party-related matters should be handled by the FAST leadership, while official government business should remain on recognised government channels.

When questioned about those responsible for managing the page, La'auli claimed that he had received information suggesting Leatinu'u and some of his relatives were behind its operation. However, in a swift rebuttal, Leatinu'u rejected the accusations, calling them "unfounded and baseless."

"I am deeply disappointed by La'auli’s remarks on his live stream, where he falsely accused me and my family of being responsible for the 'FASTGovt' Facebook page," said Leatinu'u. 

"Let me be clear: while I do not deny my involvement with the page, my family members have no role in it whatsoever. It is unfair and misleading to bring them into this issue."

Leatinu'u elaborated on the purpose of the page, stating that he, along with other professionals and experts, administers the platform to relay accurate information to the public regarding government projects. He emphasised their efforts to counter misinformation and maintain transparency in government communications.

"We are focused on correcting misinformation and ensuring that the truth prevails. I also find it important to note that Laauli’s own family has always been heavily involved in politics, yet no one from this government has ever felt the need to drag them into any statements or accusations. 

"It is a matter of respect and fairness to keep personal families out of political discourse.

"I respectfully ask that Laauli leave my family out of his unwarranted accusations."

Calling for unity, Leatinu'u urged La'auli to refrain from making "unwarranted accusations" and instead focus on constructive dialogue.

"We all should be focused on constructive dialogue and working together for the betterment of our country, not on making divisive and baseless claims. Let’s keep the conversation centered on the real issues and move forward with integrity."

The disagreement underscores ongoing tensions within the ruling party as it navigates governance while managing internal divisions. The debate over the "FASTGovt" page raises broader questions about the role of digital platforms in official government communications and the extent to which political affiliations influence public messaging.