The Journalists Association of Samoa (JAWS) stands in full solidarity with its president, Lagi Keresoma, who is facing charges of criminal libel and calls for repealing the law. 

In a statement from the JAWS Executive Board, the association expressed its concern and threats to press freedom under section 117A of the Crimes Act 2013.

JAWS said the provision is a troubling development for press freedom in Samoa and should not be used to silence journalists and discourage investigative reporting. 

“It is deeply concerning that a journalist of Lagi Keresoma’s integrity and professionalism is being prosecuted under a law that has long been criticised for its negative effect on Press Freedom,” said the association.

JAWS is in support of Ms Keresoma and stands firm and “affirms her right to report freely and without fear of criminal prosecution.

 “Reject the use of criminal libel laws as a means to silence journalists or discourage investigative reporting.”

The association is making a stand urging to immediate repeal of Section 117A of the Crimes Act 2013 and for Samoa to return to a legal framework that protects press freedom and resolves defamation through civil remedies. 

Furthermore, the journalists are banding together to defend the rights of all journalists in Samoa to work without intimidation or legal harassment. 

“We urge the Government of Samoa and the Ministry of Police and Prisons to uphold their constitutional and democratic obligations to Protect Freedom Of Expression and The Press.”

Ms. Keresoma, a senior journalist for Talamua Media online, was charged by the police on Sunday following a complaint lodged by a former police officer. 

The complaint is in relation to an article published online by the media outlet alleging that the former law enforcement officer sought assistance from the Head of State to withdraw charges against him. 

The former officer is currently facing two charges of forgery on a loan application, which he denied, and his matter is pending in the Supreme Court. 

Police Commissioner, Auapaau Logoitino Filipo, said the former police officer lodged a complaint and alleged the article was not true claiming it has also defamed him.