Prime Minister, Hon. Laaulialemalietoa Polataivao Leuatea Fosi Schmidt left Samoa on Sunday 21 September 2025 for scheduled medical treatment in New Zealand.
Government operations have been limited to basic services due to constraints with the annual budget for 2025/2026 yet to be approved in Parliament..
The Prime Minister’s family has therefore funded Laaulialemalietoa’s trip, according to an official government press release.
“Due to government’s current financial position with 25% of the budget from last year financing operations – the Prime Minister’s family is funding all his expenses including airfares, treatment and accommodation in New Zealand..”
Medical appointments were secured for the Prime Minister at the end of last week after the swearing-in ceremony, “so the decision was made by Cabinet for him to be flown to Auckland for treatment.”
There is a Government policy allowing for overseas treatments of the Prime Minister whi is entitled to overseas medical treatment in New Zealand, fully funded by government.
However, there was an urgency in the Prime Minister receiving a full medical check, hence the Cabinet Decision and Laauli’s family stepping in the cover cost.
The Prime Minister is accompanied by his wife, Tupea Heather Schmidt.
He plans to be away for a week.
- Justice Alalatoa Rosella Papalii Receives Distinguished Alumni Award - October 11, 2026
- Samoa Wins Best Host Country Recognition at Miss Global - October 9, 2026
- ‘Ia Manumalo’: Signature Choir Releases New Anthem - October 9, 2026
