Preparations are progressing smoothly in Samoa for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) next month, though details on restricted areas in Apia during the event have yet to be released. Samoa’s Prime Minister, Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, confirmed that all 56 member countries, including representatives from the British monarchy, will attend.
While information about meeting venues, accommodation, and the program has been shared, no official announcement has been made regarding public ban areas. However, RNZ Pacific reports that restricted zones are expected to include Beach Road along Apia’s waterfront, from Taumeasina Island Resort to the courthouse in Mulinu’u. Only those with special accreditation will have access to these areas.
A spokesperson for the Samoa Police informed RNZ Pacific that further details would be shared via social media. Despite the presence of high-level guests, the government has emphasized that security will be “kept light,” with support from the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
Prime Minister Mata’afa highlighted the significance of this event, noting that while CHOGM has been hosted in the Pacific before, this is the first time a Pacific Island nation, like Samoa, will host. She emphasized the opportunity for Samoa to bring its unique perspective to discussions on political and socio-economic development.
In the past, CHOGMs have enforced no-go zones with “special power laws,” allowing police to search and restrict access in certain areas. Samoa’s transport minister clarified that recent road upgrades on Upolu Island were not specifically for CHOGM but part of a long-planned government project. King Charles is expected to stay at a resort in Siumu.
