Sāmoa Cabinet reshuffle: Four new ministers sworn in

Sāmoa's Prime Minister, Fiamē Naomi Mata'afa, has confirmed four new Ministers, emphasising the importance of accountability and leadership in her government.

The appointments follow the dismissal of Cabinet members this week.

The four new ministers were sworn in on Wednesday.

The four Ministers were sworn in on Wednesday. Photo/TV1 Samoa Live Facebook

During a press conference in Apia, Fiamē confirmed the appointment of the following four new Ministers:

• Mauu Siaosi Puepuemai, Minister for Communication and Information Technology

• Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua, Minister for Commerce, Industry and Labour

• Lagaaia Tiaituau Tufuga, Minister for Women, Community and Social Development; and

• Niuava Eti Malolo, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Scientific Research Organisation of Sāmoa.

The new cabinet ministers were sworn in by the Head of State, Tuimalealiifano Sualauvi Vaaletoa II.

The prime minister's decision follows last week's termination of La'auli Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt, the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, who is facing multiple criminal charges. Photo/Benar News

The reshuffle comes after the termination of La'auli Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt, the former Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, last Friday.

Schmidt is facing multiple criminal charges.

On Tuesday, Fiamē announced the dismissal of three more Cabinet Ministers:

• Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio'o, Minister for Women, Community and Social Development

• Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo, Minister for Communication and Information Technology; and

• Leota Laki Sio, Minister for Commerce, Industry and Labour.

From left, Leota Laki Sio, Mulipola Anarosa Ale-Molio'o, and Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo have been dismissed from Cabinet. Photo/RNZ Pacific/FAST PARTY Facebook/Eyespy Radio 87.5/Patricia Scotland KC, Facebook

The prime minister has defended her decisions, highlighting the need for accountability and effective leadership within her government.

Meanwhile, in neighbouring countries, Tonga's new Prime Minister, Dr 'Aisake Eke, is expected to announce his Cabinet on Thursday. Preparations for Vanuatu's snap election are almost complete, with voting scheduled for Thursday.

Watch PM Fiamē Naomi Mata'afa speak to the press.