Samoa’s prime minister has proposed a ban on all non-Christian faiths apparently to counteract religious extremism. Wait, wouldn’t that be an act of religious extremism in itself, to outlaw all other religions in your country? I think that’s a fair question.

The only religious extremism taking place in Samoa appears to be coming from the Prime Minister, Laaulialemalietoa Polataivao Fosi Schmidt who stated, “I am prepared to take the necessary actions on what Samoa decides — perhaps through a referendum or national discussion — to consider amending the constitution regarding the freedom of religion.”

The Prime Minister has no concrete reason to impose such harsh measures on Samoans. There have been no religious tensions reported in Samoa. No politically motivated violence or unrest. These are peaceful people, including Samoa’s estimated 200 Muslims who just want to worship in peace.

“It may not be happening now, but there will come a time when a large number could gather under a non-Christian religion in Samoa. Then we will face what we do not wish to see,” he said.

Called by some the Donald Trump of the Pacific, Laaulialemalietoa’s proposal is likely to win the approval of his fervent, Christian support-base, many of whom believe he was chosen by God to lead Samoa.

A fanatical, God-centred approach to government anywhere in the world sets a dangerous precedent. To my knowledge, not even MAGA have proposed a nationwide ban on non-Christian religions. At least, they haven’t done so yet.

My concern has also been for the Samoan Traditional Healers known as Taulasea. These are Samoa’s natural hereditary witches (my words, not theirs) who play a spiritually and culturally significant role in Samoan society. How long before their safety and freedoms are under threat, we can only speculate.

There is hope in all this. Opposition leader, Tuila’epa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi does not believe a ban on non-Christian religions will be successful, because Laaulialemalietoa lacks the two-thirds parliamentary majority required to change Samoa’s constitution.

Spare a thought for Samoa? Leave your comments below.

Notice: Apart from autocorrect, no AI was used in the writing of this post. © 2026 Scott Rose. All rights reserved.