Attorney General Su’a Hellene Wallwork has issued a statement in response to the Samoa Law Society’s press release. She affirmed her respect for the Society’s role in upholding the rule of law but gave assurance that Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt has not interfered in any prosecutorial processes concerning matters he is involved in.
“These are sensitive matters that are currently before the Court and it is not appropriate for my Office to comment on these,” she said.
The Prime Minister has publicly stated that he will allow the Court proceedings to take their course. Since taking office, he has not made any enquiries or taken any steps to interfere with the prosecution process. He is represented by senior legal counsel in his private capacity.
Su’a also addressed concerns about the Prime Minister holding the ministerial portfolio for the Office of the Attorney General, explaining that this has always been the case and is not unusual. She emphasised that there is no impediment to her constitutional functions.
She extended prayers for the Prime Minister and his family as they await his safe return to Samoa to lead the Government.
Su’a encouraged members of the Law Society to uphold professional conduct and ethics, particularly in their communications, and reminded the media to report responsibly. She criticised the use of inflammatory headlines and restricted access to articles, saying it contributes to misinformed discourse on social media.
This press release was originally published on the Samoa Government Facebook page.
