Samoa’s Prime Minister Laʻaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt has taken a firm stance against the Samoa Observer by banning the newspaper from future press conferences. During a recent press conference, he expressed his dissatisfaction with the publication’s reporting, alleging it has negatively affected his reputation, particularly when he sought medical treatment abroad.
In a display of discontent, Laʻauli removed senior journalist Marieta Heidi Ilalio from the press event and stated that he would instruct his cabinet ministers not to respond to any inquiries from the Samoa Observer in the future. He emphasized the necessity for media outlets to adhere to cultural values of respect (fa’aaloalo) and boundaries (va tapuia) that inform ethical journalism.
The Prime Minister referenced a prior ban on the newspaper, asserting that he had initially lifted this ban at the beginning of his term but felt compelled to reassess this decision due to ongoing issues with the newspaper’s conduct. Laʻauli pointed to a particular article involving his cabinet ministers that he deemed inaccurate, demanding a formal apology from the Samoa Observer.
He elaborated on an incident that occurred over the weekend, in which the newspaper’s editor, Shalveen Chand, was allegedly assaulted while attempting to deliver a camera bag. The Prime Minister claimed this was a result of reporters encroaching on his privacy, stressing that he expected respect for his personal space and would only engage with media within a professional environment.
Despite these tensions, Laʻauli affirmed his commitment to press freedom, stating in a later communication that he values a “free and vibrant press.” However, he insisted on the importance of ethical standards in journalism, urging media entities to engage respectfully and responsibly. He expressed hope that the Samoa Observer would recognize these concerns and amend its approach, inviting a reconsideration of the ban if improvements were made.
This incident highlights a broader conversation about media accountability and the responsibilities of journalists in maintaining ethical standards, especially in politically sensitive environments. The Prime Minister’s actions underline the necessity for constructive relationships between government and media while emphasizing the potential for positive change through adherence to responsible reporting practices.