Fiame Naomi Mataafa sworn in as Deputy PM

Samoa Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has announced his 13 member Cabinet with many new names in the lineup.

Of the thirteen, the post that many had in question was whether Fonotoe Pierre Lauofo would remain Deputy Prime Minister in the new Government.

However, PM Tuilaepa confirmed Fiame Naomi Mataafa as the Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa.

Lauofo and former Finance Minister Faumuina Tiatia Liuga are not in the new Cabinet lineup.

The swearing-in ceremony today saw hundreds of guests gather at the Tuanaimato complex.

In his address, the Head of State Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi wished the new MPs the best in their time in office.

"Leadership is a beauty and privilege," he stated.

"Remember our motto, 'Living within our means'. The work of our Parliament for the next five years will be greatly assisted by our government ministries," he added.

"Your parliament is unique compared to parliaments in the past. More women and the number of new members," he stated.

The Head of State also touched on the issue of climate change.

"Phenomenal of climate change is influencing lives today.

This shows and acknowledges the seriousness of climate change," he concluded.

Following the 16th session of Parliament, PM Tuilaepa named his Cabinet Ministers as follows:

  • Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi Prime Minister - Ministry of Prime Minister and Cabinet, Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Office of the Attorney General and Public Service Commission.

  • Fiame Naomi Mataafa Deputy Prime Minister - Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment

  • Afamasaga Rico Tupai - Ministry of Communication Information Technology

  • Faaolesa Katopau T. Ainu'u - Ministry of Justice Courts and Administration

  • Papaliitele Niko Lee Hang - Ministry of Works Transportation and Infrastructure

  • Loau Sola Keneti Sio - Ministry of Education Sports and Culture

  • Tuitama Leao Talalelei Tuitama - Ministry of Health

  • Tialavea Leniu Hunt - Ministry for Revenue

  • Lautafi Selafi Purcell - Ministry of Commerce Industry and Labour

  • Sala Fata Pinati - Ministry of Police and Prisons

  • Sili Epa Tuioti - Ministry of Finance

  • Laauli Polataivao Leuatea - Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries

  • Faimalotoa Kika Stowers - Ministry of Women Community and Social Development

 

 

 

     

Author: 
Joshua Lafoai