The Government of Samoa has rejected claims that its move against the Samoa Observer amounts to an attack on media freedom, saying the action was driven by “persistent unprofessional and unethical conduct” by the newspaper.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Government said it “acknowledges the concerns raised by the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) and the Pacific Freedom Forum (PFF)” but stressed Samoa “remains firmly committed to upholding media freedom, transparency, and open engagement with the media.”
“This is not a ban on media freedom – it is a response to persistent unprofessional and unethical conduct,” the statement said. “The action taken relates solely to the Samoa Observer, following sustained unprofessional behaviour, breaches of industry ethics, and continuous inaccurate and misleading reporting over an extended period.”
According to the Government, repeated attempts to correct the issues failed.
“Despite multiple opportunities for correction, dialogue, and improvement, the pattern of irresponsible reporting persisted, culminating in actions that undermined the integrity of public information and the trust required between Government and media outlets,” it said.
The Government stressed that “no other media organisation in Samoa is affected,” and that engagement with all other local and international outlets “continues as normal.”
Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt has directed that the matter go through a “fair and transparent review process.”
“The Prime Minister has already stated that the matter will be undertaken in due course, with the expectation that issues and concerns will be addressed and resolved, and appropriate corrective measures taken,” the statement said. “This process will be guided by fairness and transparency, with the opportunity for the media organisation to be heard.”
The Government said it supports media freedom but expects accuracy and ethical standards.
“Media freedom comes with the equally important responsibility of accuracy, fairness, and respect for ethical journalism,” it said. “Samoa values and will continue to support fair reporting. However, this does not extend to repeated breaches of core media ethics.”
Samoa also called on regional organisations to seek full information before drawing conclusions.
“The Government invites PINA and PFF to engage constructively and to review the documented evidence of unprofessional reporting and breach of media ethical standards that led to this action,” it said.
The statement concluded that Samoa “remains committed to democracy, accountability, and a free press,” and emphasised that the decision is “specific, justified, and based on conduct, not on an attempt or attack to suppress the free flow of information or journalism.”
“The Government of Samoa remains open to fair, balanced, and ethical engagement with all media organisations, both local and overseas,” it said.
