In a late-night announcement, former Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries (M.A.F.), La'auli Leuatea Schmidt publicly accepted his termination from the cabinet because of serious criminal charges filed against him. 

The decision made by Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa on Friday has sent ripples throughout the nation, igniting mixed reactions from the public and political figures.

La'auli claimed he was only notified of his dismissal at 4 p.m. on Friday when his secretary received an official letter from the Secretary of the Cabinet. 

This was long after the decision was announced on various media in Samoa and the Press Secretariat's office.  

At the time of his announcement on Friday night, La'auli claimed he had not yet received the letter but accepted the Prime Minister’s decision to remove him from his ministerial post.

However, La'auli emphasised that the decision did not come as a shock to him. "I was prepared for whatever decision the Prime Minister made," he said, addressing the nation. 

"However, I cannot resign when I know, in my heart, that I am innocent." 

La'auli explained that while there had been discussions with Prime Minister Fiame about his potential resignation, he had declined to step down, citing his desire to clear his name through the legal process.

"I did not want to resign until I have had the chance to prove my innocence in court," La'auli stated firmly.

He continued to express regret for any mistakes made during his tenure and apologised to the Samoan government, its people, the Legislative Assembly and the Judiciary.

He also turned his focus to his constituents in the Gagaigomauga No.3 electorate, acknowledging the challenges they have faced in their pursuit of justice. 

"We have faced similar obstacles in the past under previous administrations, but I am confident we will overcome this as well," La'auli said, pledging his continued commitment to his people.

La'auli's passionate words were followed by a plea for his family's support. Addressing his wife, children, and grandchildren, he called on them to remain strong in their faith and continued service to the nation. 

"We must carry the cross of shame, for it will bring prosperity," he said.

Despite his emotional response, La'auli remains resolute in his claim of innocence. 

"I would never do anything to tarnish the reputation of my beloved constituency or the Samoan Parliament," he said.

Prime Minister Fiame, who moved to terminate La'auli following the charges, justified her decision in a public statement, emphasising the importance of upholding the integrity of the Samoan government. 

"The law must take its course, and no one is above the law, regardless of their status," Fiame remarked. 

"This decision was not made lightly; it was made to protect the credibility and reputation of the government."

Fiame pointed to the Constitution, which outlines clear procedures for handling cases involving public officials facing criminal charges. 

Under Section 33(3)(e)(o) of the Constitution, La'auli was given the option to either resign voluntarily or face removal from office. Having rejected the offer to resign, the Prime Minister exercised her constitutional authority to terminate him from his ministerial role.

La'auli faces multiple serious charges, including conspiracy to pervert the course of justice, harassment through electronic means, and making false statements that caused harm to an individual's reputation. These charges, filed last week, prompted the Prime Minister's swift action.

While some have praised Fiame's leadership and commitment to accountability, the decision has sparked a wave of controversy. 

Many of La’auli’s supporters have publicly criticised the termination, expressing loyalty to the embattled former minister. However, others have commended the Prime Minister for prioritising the rule of law and protecting the integrity of government institutions.

Efforts to reach La'auli's constituents in Gagaigomauga No.3 for comment on the termination were unsuccessful, with attempts to speak to local elders on Saturday failing to yield a response.

La'auli’s dismissal from his ministerial role also results in the loss of the benefits and privileges associated with the position. 

However, he will continue to serve as the Member of Parliament for Gagaifomauga No.3 and retain his roles as Chairman and Deputy Leader of the ruling Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (F.A.S.T.) party. 

His case is scheduled for a court mention on 4 February.