The Government of Samoa has clarified that public funds are not being used to pay for the travel costs of Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polāta’ivao Fosi Schmidt’s son, Anslem Schmidt.
The clarification was issued on Monday, July 6, 2026, by the Office of the Press Secretariat in response to rumours circulating online about Anslem Schmidt accompanying the Prime Minister while he is in New Zealand for a medical check-up.
According to the Government, the Prime Minister personally meets all costs linked to his son’s travel when he accompanies him overseas.
“At no time are these expenses paid for with Government funds,” the statement said.
The Government also stated that Anslem Schmidt is not employed by the Government and does not receive any Government salary or allowance for these trips.
The statement said the Prime Minister’s son travels with him to provide personal support and that this is a private family arrangement, not an official Government-funded role.
The Government also clarified that all personal travel undertaken by the Prime Minister is paid for by the Prime Minister himself.
It said the same applies when the Prime Minister’s wife accompanies him on personal travel, with all associated expenses paid by the Prime Minister and his family.
“Government funds are not used to cover any personal travel expenses for the Prime Minister, his wife or any member of his family,” the statement said.
The Government said it remains committed to transparency and that Government resources are used strictly for official Government business in accordance with established laws, policies and financial procedures.
The article is based on an official release issued by the Government of Samoa’s Press & Communication Division, Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
