FAST Party advises the Police Minister it’s his prerogative to challenge in court

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 31 January 2025 – The Leader of the Faatuatua I le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (FAST Party), Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt has responded to the Minister of Police, Prisons & Correctional Services, Faualo Harry Schuster’s claim that his and other 5 Ministers termination as FAST members is “unconstitutional.”

In a letter dated 20 January, Laauli told Faualo that the majority of the Party has spoken and made its decision and that decision remains valid.

“If you want to challenge it, that’s your prerogative,” said Laauli.

Faualo is among six cabinet ministers the FAST Party caucus terminated in a meeting of 15 January and those terminated include Prime Minister – Fiame Naomi Mataafa, the Deputy Prime Minister – Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio, Olo Fiti Vaai – Minister of Works Infrastructure & Transport, Toeolesulusulu Cedric Shuster – Minister of Natural Resources & Environment, and Leatinuu Wayne Sooialo – Minister of Business & Enterprises.

Laauli also informed Faualo not to use the FAST Party letterhead as he is no longer a FAST member.

“Given your removal from the Party, please, refrain from using the Party letterhead as that is tantamount to misrepresentation and false pretence under the law.”

Laauli also urged Faualo to move forward and concentrate on his duties as a Minister.

“In the spirit of moving forward, we urge you to concentrate on your ministerial duties to ensure our country is governed safely until the next general election, where you are then free to join another party or set up your own,” the letter ended.