Samoan PM apologises for 'heil Hitler' salute at family event in 2007

Samoan Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt has apologized for making a Nazi salute and uttering the phrase "heil Hitler" during a private family gathering in 2007. The video shows Schmidt, who has both German and Samoan heritage, standing before a group of about 13 people as he encourages them to raise their right hands and repeat the words in unison.

Schmidt acknowledged that the words and gesture were inappropriate and offensive, stating that they do not reflect his personal beliefs or the values of the Samoan government and people. He expressed regret for using such language, emphasizing that it does not represent the Samoan government's commitment to a constitutional democracy founded on respect for human dignity and the rule of law.

The video was obtained by the Samoa Observer, which reported on the incident two days after Schmidt's government reaffirmed a ban on the newspaper. The ban prevents the media organization from attending press conferences and covering government events, a decision that the paper's editor maintains will not hinder its efforts to uphold ethical standards.