JAWS Media Statement urges PM to reconsider his decision

Apia, Samoa – 20 November 2025 – Following is the statement issued by the national media association of Samoa – JAWS on the ban by the Prime Minister against the Samoa Observer newspaper.

The Journalists Association of (Western) Samoa (JAWS) remains steadfast in its support of press freedom and the free flow of information, which are essential to nation-building processes and to democracy.

Fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, which apply to journalists and media practitioners, are guaranteed in the Constitution of Samoa.

But the consequences of a free media are our responsibility.

Whilst the media have the privilege of working on a diverse platform, they must at the same time adhere to, follow, uphold, and respect the Code of Practice and the Code of Ethics.

These Codes hold all journalists accountable for their actions; however, we condemn any assault or threats against journalists.

The law of the land provides protection and safety for everyone, including journalists, and establishes a process to handle any complaint through the police.

Banning media or journalists from attending press conferences is not new; however, the banishment and public humiliation of the Samoa Observer during a press conference could have been handled through proper procedure.

The Media Council Act 2015 outlines the process for addressing complaints against journalists, and JAWS believes the Prime Minister should have followed the procedure set out in the legislation.

First, an official complaint should be lodged with the media outlet concerned.

If the Prime Minister is not satisfied with the response, the matter may then be referred, with a written complaint, to the Samoa Media Council for adjudication.

JAWS is deeply concerned that such bans may become the norm for the current Government and for future Governments.

The decision to ban the Samoa Observer raises questions about the protection and security of the media and journalists whenever the Government feels threatened.

It serves as a reminder to all registered and non-registered members of JAWS of two important sections in our Code of Practice.

Section 1- Be Accurate-Do Not Mislead (1:3) When a mistake is identified Publish a correction and apology as soon as possible. Offer an opportunity of reply to someone affected significantly by an editorial error. Publish the findings of any legal action taken in relation to a story (e.g., defamation) unless, as a result of mediation, the parties agree not to publish.

Section 6- Respect people’s privacy and dignity: Respect people’s privacy and dignity:

Intrude only when there is a strong editorial reason to do so, in the public interest. Avoid intruding on the lives of people in situations where they would normally expect privacy (for example, at home, with their families, off duty).

JAWS therefore calls on all media to contact our office at the ABM Building in Saleufi for copies of the Media Code of Practice and the Code of Ethics.

These Codes outline the process for members of the public to file complaints against any member of the media, for the Council to adjudicate.

The Journalists Association of Samoa therefore urges the Prime Minister to reconsider the decision and lift the ban on Samoa Observer journalists.

Matou te valuvalusia ai a’a o le fau i lau afioga i le ta’ita’i o le Malo, e toe sasa’a le fafao ma silasila mamao i tupulaga lalovaoa o Samoa o le a avea lenei auaunaga ma galuega e tautua ai le Malo ma le atunu’u i le lumana’i.

JAWS Executive