Pacific Media Freedom: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the People’s Alliance won’t silence media ahead of elections, arguing open information is part of the Pacific way. Regional Climate & Media: Pacific Editors Forum on Loss and Damage adopted the Savusavu Declaration, urging action to keep 1.5°C alive and calling on media to amplify Pacific voices. Samoa Election Court Case: Safata 2 MP Tuia Paepae Pua Letoa gave evidence in the Safata 2 bribery petition tied to HMNZS Manawanui compensation, denying reported party-switch comments and describing district consultations. Samoa By-Elections: Warrants were issued confirming FAST MPs Nonu Lemauga Laulu William Mauia (Vaimauga 3) and Seumafaleupolu Aperila Vaalotu (Falealili 1). Women in Politics Online Safety: Face Forward will fund real-time protection against online abuse for women candidates and elected officials across Samoa and the region. Digital Priorities at UNGA: Pacific leaders pushed digital connectivity, cyber safety, and “safer digital spaces” at a UNGA81 side event, with Samoa’s deputy PM attending. Samoa Governance Appointments: 14 CEOs of ministries and state bodies were sworn in for three-year terms, with PM Schmidt urging responsiveness and service to the public. Transport & Services: Samoa Airways will resume Upolu–Savai’i flights (Fagali‘i to Maota) from 8 October, restoring 15-minute air service. Labour Mobility: Australia’s PALM scheme eligibility list includes Samoa, while backpacker extension caps may shift more focus toward PALM for seasonal work.