The Government of Samoa has issued a public clarification to counter online speculation surrounding Prime Minister Hon. La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polata’ivao Fosi Schmidt’s son, Anslem Schmidt, accompanying him on overseas travel.
“The Prime Minister personally meets all costs associated with his son’s travel when accompanying him overseas.”
“At no time are these expenses paid for with Government funds.”
The press release clarifies the Prime Minister personally pays all costs associated with his son’s travel, including the current trip to New Zealand where the Prime Minister is undergoing a medical check-up.
The statement emphasises that no Government funds are used for Anslem Schmidt’s travel and that he holds no Government position, receives no salary or allowances, and performs no official Government duties.
“The Prime Minister’s son accompanies him because he is the person the Prime Minister trusts most to provide personal support while travelling.”
In Samoa, where family loyalty and caring for one’s parents are deeply embedded cultural values, it is not uncommon for children to accompany and support their parents, particularly when travelling overseas for medical appointments or other personal matters.
The Government’s clarification draws a clear distinction between official Government travel and private family support, stressing that these costs are paid for personally by the Prime Minister.
The statement also confirms that whenever the Prime Minister undertakes personal travel, including occasions when his wife accompanies him, all related expenses are met 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 reiterates Government funds are reserved solely for official Government business and are managed in accordance with established laws, financial policies and procedures.
The clarification comes amid rumours on social media alleging that taxpayers were funding the Prime Minister’s son’s travel.
The Government says those claims are incorrect and has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
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