Samoa's first female prime minister loses re-election after political turmoil

Samoa's first female Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, has lost her majority in recent elections following months of political turmoil. The opposition Fast party secured 30 of the 50 parliamentary seats, positioning their leader, La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt, to become the next prime minister. Mata’afa's term, which began in 2021, was marked by significant political disputes and economic challenges, including widespread blackouts and budget rejections.