Samoa’s Prime Minister Apologizes for Nazi Words and Gesture in 2007 Footage
Published
Samoa’s Prime Minister Laʻauli Leuatea Schmidt apologized in a government statement for Nazi words and a gesture seen in footage from a private family gathering in Savai’i in 2007. He acknowledged saying “Heil Hitler” and participating in a gesture associated with Nazi Germany. Schmidt said the words and gesture were inappropriate and could cause offence and hurt. He rejected Nazism, antisemitism, racism and political extremism, saying they did not reflect his beliefs or the values of Samoa’s government and people. He also said public officials should take responsibility when criticism is justified.