A New Chapter: La‘aulialemalietoa Schmidt Poised to Lead Samoa

Apia, Samoa - With FAST securing a clear majority in Samoa’s recent snap election, La‘aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt is set to be sworn in as Prime Minister when Parliament convenes on 16 September 2025. Here's a closer look at the man about to take the helm, his political journey, and what he promises for Samoa’s future.

From HRPP Origins to FAST Leadership

Born on 14 April 1966, Schmidt is the son of former Government Minister Polataivao Fosi Schmidt and began his career with the Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP). He first entered Parliament in 2006, serving as Deputy Speaker (2006–2011) and then as Speaker (2011–2016) before joining FAST in 2020. ([Wikipedia]Wikipedia)

In early 2025, he was dismissed from his role as Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries after facing criminal charges. Despite facing charges earlier this year, Schmidt rose to lead FAST into the 2025 election. ([RNZ]RNZsamoanewshub.com)

FAST's Victory and Schmidt’s Promises

FAST won 30 seats in the August election, defeating HRPP, SUP, and independent contenders. The Head of State has confirmed these results, paving the way for Schmidt’s ascension. ([Reuters]Reuters)

Schmidt campaigns on three guiding principles:

• Seeking justice (Saili i le Amiotonu)

• Acting with love (Naunau i le Alofa)

• Walking humbly with God (Savavali ma le Atua ma le Loto Maualalo) ([Samoa Global News]samoaglobalnews.com)

  
  

His manifesto includes:

• Free hospital care

• Increased village development funding

• Raising the retirement age

• Launching a national carbon credit scheme and stock exchange

• Revitalising Samoa Airways, however the funding details remain unclear. ([Wikipedia / Samoa Observer]Wikipedia+1)

What to Expect

Political commentator Renate Rivers calls Schmidt's victory a shift from Fiame’s cautious diplomatic stance. Schmidt’s focus appears strongly domestic: decentralising development budgets, reducing taxes, and setting a faith-based tone for governance. ([AP News]AP NewsThe Guardian).

Quick Facts at a Glance

Detail	Info
Background	Former HRPP Speaker and former Minister of Agriculture
Leadership Role	FAST Party Leader since January 2025
Election Outcome	FAST won 30 seats; Schmidt expected to be PM
Key Promise Pillars	Justice, Love, Humility
Core Policy Goals	Health care, development funding, tax reform, national projects

Sources: Reuters, AP News, Samoa Global News, RNZ Pacific, Wikipedia