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Samoa’s Political Landscape: A Nation on the Brink of Change

Writer's picture: Elinor Kahurangi Elinor Kahurangi


The last two weeks have marked a historic and turbulent chapter in Samoa’s political journey, with intense developments unfolding between the ruling FAST Party, led by Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt (Laauli), and Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa. The political tensions have been further complicated by a perceived alliance or collaboration between Fiame and opposition leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi of the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP).


The crisis began when FAST members voted to retain Laauli as Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, despite being charged by Police that include defamation charges and an impending court hearing. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, exercising her Cabinet authority, overruled the party's majority decision and dismissed Laauli, along with three other ministers who had openly questioned her leadership. This decisive yet controversial move triggered widespread dissent within FAST, leading 20 party members to sign a no-confidence motion against Fiame. In response, the party leadership expelled Fiame and five allied MPs, accusing them of undermining party principles and disregarding collective decisions.


Laauli contends that it is unjust to demand his resignation when others within the government, including the current Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, who faced court cases in the past, were allowed to continue their portfolios while attending court hearings. He believes he should be afforded the same opportunity to fulfil his ministerial duties while addressing his legal matters, viewing the decision to ask him to step down as inconsistent and unfair.


Fiame’s responses and public statements have further intensified the political tensions. She has justified her actions as essential for maintaining good governance and, during a press conference, revealed plans to meet with opposition leader Tuilaepa to address the ongoing political crisis when questioned by a reporter. This announcement has been interpreted by some as potential collusion, raising further questions about her alignment and intentions amidst the turmoil.


The implications of these events have rippled through Samoa’s political system, as the expulsions have led to calls for vacant seats to be declared and potential by-elections to be triggered. Meanwhile, Fiame’s refusal to attend critical FAST meetings and her alignment with opposition forces have added to the uncertainty surrounding her political future.


With the first parliamentary session of 2025 scheduled for tomorrow, all eyes are on Samoa as it navigates this political crisis. The decisions made during this session will determine whether FAST consolidates its authority or if the divisions within its ranks lead to broader instability. Governments across the Pacific, including in Tonga, Fiji, and New Zealand, are undergoing transformative shifts, but Samoa’s current challenges stand out as a defining test for its young democracy and the future of the FAST-led government.


Only time will reveal the outcome of this unprecedented chapter in Samoa’s political landscape.

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