Dear Editor,

This week, many schools have spoken out about the delayed release of the Government Grant, which should have been disbursed before the start of the 2026 school year.

These funds are essential for payment of teachers’ salaries, stationery, and other expenses.

The grant scheme was introduced in 1983, during my tenure as Minister of Finance, initially providing $30,000 to mission schools.

With subsequent support from Australia and New Zealand, it expanded significantly to its current level of approximately $18 million, now benefiting all schools across Samoa.

For the first time, the Government has altered the disbursement process, shifting it from the established system under the Ministry of Finance to the District Development Fund.

This change raises serious concerns about accountability and opens the door to potential political misuse.

The recent court cases involving the use of such funds have already intensified public awareness and concern about how taxpayers’ funds are used.

At the same time, the Prime Minister is focused on “pie in the sky” funding initiatives, while much of the world is preparing for economic hardship driven by global instability, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

There is also growing concern that external budget support from partners such as Australia and New Zealand may be relied upon to sustain policies that do not align with sound financial management.

Local representatives should be mindful of these implications, particularly as similar approaches have contributed to instability in other parts of the Pacific.

While recent engagement by the International Monetary Fund is timely, there is concern about the Government's lack of understanding of the importance of maintaining the Central Bank's independence.

This independence is important in ensuring economic stability and resilience, particularly in times of uncertainty.

It is our duty as the Opposition to alert the nation to the challenging times ahead.

Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi

Leader of HRPP