Samoan Rugby Governance: Cabinet has formally backed the Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) as the country’s rugby governing body, even as World Rugby continues to recognise Lakapi Samoa for international representation—leaving uncertainty over how the split could affect Samoa’s future on the global stage. Court Watch: The High Court dismissed MP Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafis’ bid for a judicial review over the Attorney-General’s decision not to appeal District Court acquittals involving Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt and others. Electoral Commission Discipline: Samoa’s Electoral Commissioner suspended OEC Communications Officer Seumanutafa Lima Vaepule for three weeks while an internal investigation is underway, following comments on TV about compensation payments tied to the HMNZS Manawanui disaster. Public Safety & Prevention: PM Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt launched “Lalaga Le Vā” to tackle illegal drugs and violence through prevention and early intervention, bringing together multiple ministries and community partners under PACT Samoa. Health Procurement: Samoa signed an agreement for nearly US$3m in medical equipment and supplies to strengthen vaccine coverage across Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu, with UNOPS handling procurement. Regional Diplomacy: Naoero (Nauru) opened its Jerusalem embassy, becoming the third Pacific Island nation to do so, with Israel pledging medical equipment and water purification support.