Samoa's prime minister apologises for historic Nazi salute video
Prime Minister La'aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt issued an apology after a 2007 family video showed him using a Nazi salute and saying “Heil Hitler.”
La'aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt, Samoa’s prime minister, apologized after a previously unseen video from a 2007 family event on Savai'i surfaced, showing him chant “Heil Hitler” and perform a Nazi-style salute. The clip, recorded while he served as deputy speaker of parliament, was captured at a private gathering and was not meant for public distribution. In a statement, Schmidt said he recognises the offence such language can cause and expressed remorse.
He reiterated his personal rejection of Nazism, antisemitism, racism and any political extremism, asserting these views are contrary to his beliefs and the Samoan government’s principles. The prime minister also highlighted Samoa’s commitment to democracy, human dignity, rule of law and freedom of expression. He concluded that the matter is now resolved and emphasized the need to concentrate on the country’s pressing economic and social priorities.
Why it matters
The apology addresses a sensitive historical issue and tests the government's stance on extremist symbols.
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