Lakapi Samoa Chairman Namulauulu Papali’i Leota Sami Leota has used his appointment to the World Rugby Council to argue for Samoa’s continued standing in the global game, as debate continues over the future leadership of rugby in Samoa.
Speaking during the Parliament sitting on Monday 22 June 2026, Namulauulu said the main concern was to protect Samoa’s position in world rugby.
“O le manumanu ina ia faatumau le tulaga a Samoa i le lakapi o le lalolagi,” he told Parliament.
His comments came as the Government and rugby leaders continue to discuss the future of Lakapi Samoa, following concerns over the direction, performance and governance of the national game.
Prime Minister Laauli Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt questioned the current state of rugby in Samoa, saying the Government’s position is to support the sport, but also to ensure it is properly managed.
“O fea le tulaga lea ua iai le lakapi i le taimi lenei?” the Prime Minister asked.
He said the Government wants to support rugby, but becomes involved when leadership changes are being considered because of concerns over Samoa’s standing internationally.
“O le mana’o o le malo o le lagolago le lakapi. E tula’i le malo pe’a sui le pulega ona ua faaletonu le tulaga o le lakapi Samoa i le lalolagi,” he said.
Namulauulu responded by questioning the direction of the discussion, saying the matter had first been brought to Parliament for discussion.
The exchange has added another layer to the dispute over Samoan rugby, with Lakapi Samoa seeking to retain its leadership role while former rugby figures and supporters continue to push for changes to how the sport is governed.
The issue has also been tied to Australian-backed rugby development funding for Samoa. The Prime Minister has said the Government became involved after Australia required the Government to sign for the funding, and that Samoa should not miss out while internal rugby issues are being addressed.
However, he has also made clear that the Government expects accountability over the use of any funding and wants the right people in place to manage the sport.
For Namulauulu and Lakapi Samoa, the World Rugby Council appointment is being presented as an important sign of continuity. Lakapi Samoa has said his appointment keeps Samoa directly involved in decisions on rugby governance, competitions, player welfare, high performance and development.
The appointment preserves Samoa’s seat at the top level of world rugby at a time when the country’s domestic rugby leadership remains under pressure.
The debate now centres on two competing concerns: Lakapi Samoa’s call for continuity and international representation, and the Government’s call for accountability, reform and confidence in the management of Samoan rugby.
