Pacific media groups have called on Samoa’s Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt to immediately lift his government’s ban on the Samoa Observer, warning it undermines constitutional rights and weakens public trust.
In a joint letter, the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) and the Pacific Freedom Forum (PFF) told the Prime Minister the decision “restricts media freedom protected under Samoa’s Constitution and undermines the public’s fundamental right to information.”
They stressed that blocking the country’s only daily newspaper from official government press conferences threatens transparency and accountability.
“As Samoa’s only daily newspaper and its largest media organisation, the Samoa Observer plays a critical role in ensuring that citizens have access to independent reporting on matters that shape their lives,” the letter states.
The organisations said the ban was disproportionate, even in light of the reported confrontation involving Observer journalists.
“We acknowledge that an incident took place involving Samoa Observer journalists. However, an international journalist present at the time described their conduct as ‘careful and respectful.’ We are also aware that the Samoa Observer editor has lodged a police complaint alleging assault-an allegation that must be properly investigated.”
They reminded the government that Samoa already has a legal process to address complaints about media conduct.
“Even if there are different accounts of what occurred, a complete ban on an entire newsroom is not a fair or proportionate response,” they wrote, pointing to the Media Council Act 2015 as the proper mechanism for resolving disputes.
“By passing the legal framework and resorting to a blanket ban, the government sets a worrying precedent that future administrations could exploit to silence media outlets they find inconvenient.”
The letter urges Schmidt to reverse the decision and return to lawful, democratic processes.
“Lifting the ban and engaging through Samoa’s established media accountability mechanisms would reinforce your government’s commitment to transparency, the rule of law, and democratic governance.”
With the regional spotlight now on Apia, PINA and PFF warn that Samoa’s reputation as a democratic leader is at stake.
“The Pacific region is watching closely. Samoa’s democratic standing and its reputation as a leader in the region depends on the actions taken now.”
