Newsline Owner Pio Sioa has been Suspended from Government Press Conferences

2026-02-26 - 04:17

The Government of Samoa has suspended Pio Sioa, owner of Newsline, from attending future government press conferences until further notice, citing concerns over his conduct at a high-level press conference on Wednesday. In a letter dated 25 February to JAWS President Lagi Kerisoma, Acting Press Secretariat Fiso Jennifer Key said the government wished to formally raise grave concerns regarding Mr Sioa’s behaviour during a joint press conference involving Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. The letter states that Mr Sioa’s demeanour was considered unpleasant, his attire unsuitable for the occasion and his conduct unbecoming of a veteran media professional. It further alleges his tone and approach demonstrated a lack of respect toward both leaders and undermined the dignity of the event. According to Fiso, officials had no alternative but to request police to escort Mr Sioa from the venue. The correspondence was copied to the Prime Minister and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining a constructive relationship with the media and to upholding press freedom. However, it stated that such engagement must be grounded in respect, mutual understanding and Samoa’s Christian and cultural values. Fiso added that Mr Sioa’s conduct reflected what they described as a disregard for values held by Samoans and raised concerns about the position of JAWS as an organization.