Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa has assured the public that there will be no media restrictions during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, taking place from 21 to 26 October.
In a response to concerns raised in a letter titled, “Let us tell our own stories, Our Way, To our own people,” sent by new Pacific Island News Association (PINA) President Mr. Kalafi Moala and Pacific Freedom Forum (PFF) Chairman Mr. Robert Iroga, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the Samoan government’s commitment to media freedom.
“Referring to your specific concern regarding restrictions limiting media to perform their role as a vital pillar of any democracy, I would like to reaffirm there are no such restriction on Samoa’s media, or any visiting International media, at Samoa CHOGM 2024,” PM Mataafa said in her response to Moala and Iroga’s letter.
PM Mataafa said that Samoa is working closely with the Commonwealth Secretariat to ensure a “well planned and well-coordinated” media coverage for the event, as outlined in the CHOGM Blue Book. She clarified that while all media must undergo an accreditation process, there will be no restrictions on either local or international journalists.
To manage security and logistical challenges, some media access will be controlled through “escorted media pools”. This approach will ensure journalists can gather content during closed sessions and high-interest events.
The Prime Minister emphasized that a “robust media” presence is central to ensuring a safe and successful CHOGM Samoa 2024, inviting journalists to participate actively.
Last month, regional media including those in Samoa raised concern after Agafili Shem Leo, Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, announced that media restrictions for CHOGM are based on the Commonwealth Bluebook guidelines.
The theme for CHOGM 2024 is ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth’.
Source: Samoa Government / CHOGM