The cabinet has assumed the role of the caretaker government until a new government is elected and convenes its first parliamentary sitting, after the Head of State accepted the advice from Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa.

Fiame met with the Head of State, Tuimalealiifano Sualauvi Vaaletoa II, on Tuesday to dissolve Parliament, allowing the country to head back to the polls after the national budget was defeated. 

In a press statement issued on Wednesday morning, the Head of State confirmed being advised by the Prime Minister that the Appropriation Bill for the government budget 2025-2026 could not proceed to the first reading in Parliament. 

During that meeting, he said she also advised him that it is necessary to dissolve Parliament so the country can proceed to the general elections. 

"I have accepted the Prime Minister's advice," Tuimalealiifano added. 

"Accordingly, a formal notice will be duly gazetted to confirm the dissolution of the Legislative Assembly. Pursuant to Articles 32(1) and 33(1) of the Constitution, the cabinet continues to have the general direction and control of the executive government of Samoa, until the first session of the Legislative Assembly following dissolution."