Samoa PM apologizes after Nazi salute video surfaces
Samoa's Prime Minister La'auli Leuatea Schmidt apologized for a 2007 video showing him leading a Nazi salute and saying 'Heil Hitler' at a family gathering.
In Brief
- •Samoa's Prime Minister La'auli Leuatea Schmidt apologized for a 2007 video showing him leading a Nazi salute and saying 'Heil Hitler' at a family gathering.
- •The video, verified by Radio New Zealand, was published by the Samoa Observer and shows Schmidt holding a microphone during a family reunion on Savai'i.
- •Schmidt stated that the words and gesture were inappropriate and do not reflect his beliefs or those of Samoa's government and people.
- •Schmidt has previously expressed strong support for Israel, including wearing a Jewish prayer shawl at his swearing-in and pledging to open a Samoan embassy in Jerusalem.
- •The controversy has led to criticism from academics, with historians describing the footage as 'shocking and disturbing'.
Why It Matters
The emergence of the video has sparked significant controversy in Samoa, highlighting the country's complex political and social landscape. Schmidt's apology and the subsequent public expressions of support for Israel have drawn international attention. The incident underscores the importance of accountability and the potential consequences of past actions in shaping current political narratives.
Key Details
- Date of Video
- July 2007
- Location of Video
- Savai'i, Samoa
- Schmidt's Position at Time of Video
- MP and deputy speaker of parliament
- Duration of Video
- 7 seconds
- Schmidt's Current Position
- Prime Minister of Samoa
Context & Background
Samoa is a Pacific island nation with a rich cultural heritage and a history of political developments. The country has a complex relationship with Israel, with Schmidt's previous actions and statements reflecting a strong pro-Israel stance.
Original Reporting & Sources
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