Financial Crime World

Samoa Condemns Proposed Whistleblower Protection Laws, Journalists Association Head Says

Proposed Amendment Sparks Outrage Among Journalists and Transparency Advocates

The head of Samoa’s Journalists Association has slammed a proposed amendment to the country’s crimes act that could see whistleblowers jailed for up to seven years. The amendment would criminalize public servants disclosing official information to a third party for any reason.

Heavy-Handed Approach Criticized

Rudy Bartley, the association’s head, described the proposal as “heavy-handed” and argued that there are already laws in place to protect government information. He suggested that the real issue is not the leaking of sensitive information but rather the lack of transparency from the government on matters of public interest.

Concerns About Freedom of Information

Bartley expressed concern that without a freedom of information law, access to government information would be severely restricted by any such legislation. “With a FOI, government agencies will be bound by law to release such information for the greater good and national interest,” he emphasized.

Prime Minister Defends Proposed Law

However, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi defended the proposed law during his weekly radio address, stating that he always makes himself available to respond to media requests seeking government information. He accused some journalists of being motivated by a desire to tarnish the government’s “good reputation.”

Controversy Surrounds Proposed Amendment

The controversy surrounding the proposed amendment has sparked concerns about the protection of whistleblowers in Samoa and the country’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

  • The proposed law could criminalize public servants for disclosing official information, even if it is in the public interest.
  • Critics argue that the lack of a freedom of information law will severely restrict access to government information.
  • The controversy highlights concerns about the protection of whistleblowers in Samoa and the country’s commitment to transparency and accountability.