Measles emergency: Samoa’s measles outbreak is worsening after the government declared an epidemic 16 days ago, with the Ministry of Health reporting 314 suspected cases, 146 tests pending and three deaths suspected to be measles-related, mostly among children under four—prompting closures of pre-schools and child day-care centres. Police & accountability: Samoa Police’s cybercrime chief, reinstated Inspector Li’o Faataumalama Auava, defended Prime Minister’s son Anslem Schmidt after allegations he removed an SD card and deleted Samoa Observer photos during Police Remembrance Day coverage. Education politics: Caretaker Education Minister Loau Keneti Sio agreed to resign following an election petition challenge, triggering a by-election in Sagaga No. 1 and further reducing HRPP numbers in Parliament. Government administration: The Ministry of Family and Social Affairs welcomed three new ACEOs as it transitions into a separate MFSA structure, while Samoa launched its National Digital Identification (NDID) policy ahead of mass registration expected mid-2027. Health & finance decisions: Cabinet withheld circulation of a $100 Tala commemorative note and approved 24-month contracts for medicine supply, plus overseas treatment for 16 patients. Climate diplomacy: Samoa’s finance minister pushed UNGA for a major overhaul of climate finance so small island states aren’t forced to borrow for both development and disaster recovery. Water & infrastructure: Japan handed over a 100,000-litre water tank for Aufaga, and the Alaoa multipurpose dam moved toward contractor prequalification with bids expected in 2027.