Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Polataivao Leuatea Fosi Schmidt departed Samoa on Sunday, 21 September, for medical treatment in Auckland, New Zealand, at the expense of his family.

According to a government statement, the cabinet secured medical appointments for the Prime Minister late last week, prompting his decision to travel overseas for treatment. He is expected to be away for one week and is accompanied by his wife.

While government policy entitles the head of government to overseas medical treatment fully funded by public resources, the press release noted that the Schmidt family will cover all expenses on this occasion.

“Due to the government’s current financial position, with 25 per cent of the budget from last year still financing operations now, and the urgency to undertake treatment, the Prime Minister’s family is funding all his expenses, including airfares, treatment, and accommodation in New Zealand,” the statement said.

The Government Press Secretary emphasised that the decision was made by Cabinet, in line with protocol for official overseas medical travel.

The Prime Minister’s absence comes just a week into his administration.

The nature of the medical evacuation and the cost of the chartered flight have not been specified