It’s official. Samoa’s Head of State, Tuimalealiʻifano Vaʻaletoa Sualauvi II, has issued a proclamation banning all construction on Sundays, effective January 16.
The Samoa Observer reported that Tuimalealiifano also proclaimed a national week of prayer and fasting, which began last Sunday.
The proclamation, endorsed at the request of Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt, also mandates weekly prayers and fasting every Wednesday across government ministries, corporations, and statutory bodies.
It further reinforces a ban on construction and similar works on Sundays, except for essential services and operations related to national security.
In the declaration, the Head of State cited Samoa’s constitutional foundations, official motto, and the impact of natural disasters and climate-related events on the country’s environment and development.
“Whereas it is the duty of the leaders and the people of Samoa to pray at all times for the blessings of the almighty God on their country and on ourselves,” the proclamation reads.
“Prayers and fasting shall continue every week on Wednesdays by government ministries, corporations, and statutory offices, commencing with combined fasting in the morning and to close with a prayer service in the evening at this house, the government prayer house.”
“Works such as construction will be prohibited on Sundays, except for essential services and operations for the security of the country,” it concludes.
The proclamation takes effect immediately, with Sunday marking the first day of the national observance.
