Samoa’s Head of State, Le Afioga le Ao Mamalu ole Malo, Tuimaleali’ifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II was sworn in by Chief Justice, his Honour Satiu Simativa Perese for a second term consisting of five years.
The swearing ceremony was held this morning and was well attended by Government officials, Chiefs and members of the private sector.
The Head of State said he’s accepted his second term, and while the first term was somewhat challenging considering the events that took place in the last five years, his faith in Christ has paved the way and lessened the burden, which coincides with the theme of Samoa’s 60 independence anniversary, sail with faith.
He also made mention of the recently concluded Atoa o Samoa executive talks between Samoa and American Samoa and commended the Government leaders for this initiative for the betterment of both Countries.
In August Parliament endorsed the appointment of Tuimaleali’ifano as HOS for a second term.
Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa took the floor and explained the Head of State’s appointment started in 1962 with the appointments of Tupua Tamasese Meaole and Malietoa Tanumafili II and their appointments were valid until their deaths.
Tupua passed in 1963 while Malietoa passed in 2007. Under the Constitution, the term of the Head of State is five years. Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi was appointed in 2007 and he served for two terms. After him, the ruling HRPP party at that time appointed Tuimaleali’ifano in 2017.
Fiame said the term is for five years, however, in 2019 there were changes to the Constitution limiting the terms of each person to serve two terms. That means, that person cannot serve more than 10 years.
Other changes were made in 2019 such as addressing the Head of State, his Highness has been changed to Ao ole Malo; also removed is the “Masiofo” addressing the first lady.
