Rugby Governance Clash: Samoa’s government has formally backed a new Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) as the national rugby governing body, while World Rugby continues to recognise Lakapi Samoa and Manu Samoa’s international programme carries on for now. Court & Accountability: The High Court dismissed MP Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi’s judicial review after a District Court acquitted the PM and others, with the judge saying the case reflected years of wasted police and judicial resources. Electoral Watch: Samoa’s Electoral Commissioner suspended an OEC communications officer for three weeks while an internal investigation is underway, linked to comments about compensation payments after the HMNZS Manawanui disaster. Public Safety Prevention: Cabinet launched “Lalaga Le Vā” to tackle illegal drugs and violence through early intervention with families, villages, schools and ministries, coordinated by PACT Samoa. Health Procurement: Samoa signed an agreement for nearly US$3m in medical equipment and supplies under an ADB-funded vaccine systems-strengthening project, to support cold-chain and primary care. Regional Diplomacy: Naoero (Nauru) opened its Jerusalem embassy, becoming the third Pacific island nation to do so, with Israel pledging medical and water purification support. Sports Pathways: Samoa is set to host OFC U-19 Men’s Championship semi-finals in Apia, with two winners securing FIFA U-20 World Cup spots. Youth Mental Health: A new Pacific-led research push in Samoa and Aotearoa links sleep and circadian rhythms to youth mental wellbeing, supported by international collaboration.