Samoa’s Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa has dismissed three Cabinet ministers, citing the need for confidence and trust within her administration.
The sacked ministers are Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio’o (Women, Community, and Social Development), Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo (Communication and Information Technology), and Leota Laki Sio (Commerce, Industry, and Labor).
Fiame addressed the dismissals during a press conference, emphasizing the importance of loyalty. “The question put to the three now terminated – ‘do you have faith in me’ – when it comes to confidence, I need to know that,” she said.
Local reports suggest tensions within the ruling FAST party, with some members allegedly calling for Fiame’s removal as leader. Responding to the claims, she stated, “It is also the Parliament of Samoa who can make the decision on whether or not I stay as prime minister or step down.”
Fiame confirmed La’auli Leuatea Schmidt, FAST chairman and former Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, faced pressure to step down after criminal charges. “Laauli had been charged, and he needed to resign… But now they turned against me,” she remarked.
The prime minister is expected to announce replacements for the vacant ministerial roles on Wednesday. Samoa’s parliament will reconvene next Monday.