Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuku Onesemo has confirmed that the government has no current plan to provide financial assistance for Prime Minister La'aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt’s overseas medical expenses.

Laauialemalietoa has been personally funding his medical bill since he departed for treatment in New Zealand.

Toelupe explained that while government policies exist to support leaders or officials requiring medical care abroad, no official decision has been made to release funds in the Prime Minister’s case.

“At this stage, there is no government arrangement in place,” he said. “The Prime Minister himself had requested to cover the cost of his travel and treatment. However, the government does have frameworks to address such matters, and a decision may be considered in due course, particularly once the national budget is approved and fiscal operations return to normal.”

Toelupe emphasised that any future decision on assistance would be guided by the Ministries of Health and Finance, depending on established procedures and the availability of funds. “It’s an issue that will be discussed further when appropriate,” he said.

Prime Minister La'aulialemalietoa remains under medical care at Middlemore Hospital in Auckland, New Zealand. He departed Samoa on 21 September for treatment and was initially expected to return on 19 October. However, medical advice has extended his stay after doctors confirmed that he is currently unable to stand or travel.

“The doctors have advised that he should continue treatment until he fully recovers,” Toelupe said. “It is important that he regains full health before returning.”

He noted that the cabinet has formally approved an extension of the Prime Minister’s medical leave to ensure he receives adequate care. In the meantime, senior Cabinet members, led by Toelupe, are overseeing the government’s daily operations. “All mechanisms are in place to maintain continuity of governance,” he said. “Ministries and public services continue to function, and key decisions are being handled efficiently.”

No revised date has been set for the Prime Minister’s return. Toelupe appealed for patience from the public, stressing that the government’s foremost concern is the Prime Minister’s recovery and overall well-being.