The Samoa Observer reported that it had obtained historical video footage from a private family gathering in Savai‘i in 2007 showing La‘aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt saying “Heil Hitler” and making the associated gesture.
The footage was reported by the Samoa Observer, which said it was recorded at a Schmidt family reunion in Safotu, Savai‘i, when La‘aulialemalietoa was an MP and Deputy Speaker of Parliament.
According to the Observer, La‘aulialemalietoa can be seen holding a microphone and telling those gathered, “Raise your right hand, Heil Hitler.”
The report has since attracted attention outside Samoa, with international media also covering the footage.
On Monday, the Prime Minister responded in an official statement issued through the Government Press Secretariat.
“I have been made aware of historical video footage reported in the media relating to a private family gathering in Savai‘i in 2007,” he said.
“The footage shows me using the words ‘Heil Hitler’ and participating in a gesture associated with Nazi Germany in a private family gathering — not intended for the public.”
La‘aulialemalietoa acknowledged that regardless of the circumstances surrounding the gathering, his actions were inappropriate.
“Whatever the context or intention at that gathering twenty years ago, I recognise that those words and gesture were inappropriate and capable of causing offence and hurt and I apologise for using them.”
He also rejected Nazism, antisemitism, racism and political extremism.
“They do not reflect my personal beliefs, nor the values of the Government or people of Samoa as in the public record of statements I made since becoming Prime Minister,” he said.
The Prime Minister said Samoa was a constitutional democracy founded on respect for human dignity, the rule of law, Parliament, the courts, traditional institutions and freedom of expression.
He also referred to Samoa’s history and the leaders who fought and died for the country’s independence from colonial rule.
“We continue to celebrate the strength of our culture that identify and unite us as a people and as a sovereign and independent nation,” he said.
La‘aulialemalietoa said people holding public office should be prepared to accept criticism where it is justified.
“I respect that those of us who hold public office, and where criticism is justified, we must be prepared to listen and take responsibility.”
He said his attention would remain on Samoa’s economic and social challenges, strengthening the economy and creating opportunities for Samoans.
“I consider this matter addressed as I remain focused on the huge responsibilities ahead of us all.”
The footage dates back almost two decades, long before La‘aulialemalietoa became Prime Minister. Its emergence comes at a time when he remains one of Samoa’s most prominent political figures following FAST’s return to government under his leadership.
