AGP Executive Report
Last update: 10 hours agoGovernment Communications: Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Schmidt has axed the weekly press conferences for all media, saying the government will communicate “for the peace of the country” and that “the more we say, the more they say.” Cabinet Leak Fallout: He also confirmed Cabinet identified the ministry behind a leaked directive authorising nearly $1m in payments to BlueWave Wireless, with possible referral to law enforcement. Budget Passes: Parliament approved Samoa’s 2026/27 $1.5b budget, projecting a cash deficit of $215.9m, with priorities including district development, health, education and social protection. Ombudsman Update: Vui Clarence Nelson’s swearing-in was cancelled after he had to leave Samoa overseas, though his appointment was already accepted by Parliament. Justice and Courts: The Land and Titles Court issued its response to a Parliament-ordered inquiry into judges’ work, while the Justice Minister called election laws “stupid” and announced a commission of inquiry into the 2025 election. MP Drug Testing: The PM says legislation will require MPs to undergo drug testing, following a heated debate in Parliament. Health Controversy: New reporting in the US raises fresh red flags over RFK Jr’s Samoa visit in 2019 and whether it was linked to vaccine issues ahead of a measles outbreak. Tourism & Culture: Samoa Tourism Authority appointed Onomea Productions as official organiser of the Miss Samoa Pageant for 2026–2028.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.
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