Manawanui Compensation Dispute: New Zealand says it has not agreed to any new payment over the sinking of HMNZS Manawanui, pointing to an exchange of letters that Samoa agreed to “not seek further payment” for resolved issues, while Samoa’s Environment Minister Ale Vena Ale says a separate WST4.2m compensation is still being negotiated for Siumu residents. Ombudsman Switch: Vui Clarence Nelson is set to be sworn in as Samoa’s new Ombudsman today, after ending a long Supreme Court career; the role also covers human rights and investigating maladministration. Governance Leak Warning: Prime Minister Schmidt warned public servants about leaked Cabinet documents, including a directive ordering nearly $988,738 for school WiFi that surfaced days later. Media Licence Threat: Revenue Minister Pauga Talalelei Pauga threatened to revoke the Samoa Observer’s business licence, accusing it of publishing incorrect and biased information. Tourism & Culture: Samoa Tourism Authority appoints Onomea Productions as official Miss Samoa pageant organiser for 2026–2028. Sports Shock: New Zealand Rugby confirms Moana Pasifika is out of Super Rugby Pacific in 2027 after rescue bids failed to meet long-term funding requirements. Pageant & Community: National Bank of Samoa backs Don Bosco College’s English Day with a $1,000 donation. Parenting App: Fiji’s Bebbo Pacific parenting app launches and is also accessible in Samoa, with offline use and guidance including vaccination schedules. Rugby Council Seat: Lakapi Sāmoa chairman Namulauulu Sami Leota takes up Samoa’s World Rugby Council seat amid a standoff with government. US Vaccine Claims Revisited: New reporting alleges RFK Jr’s Samoa visit in 2019 was vaccine-related, challenging his Senate testimony.