Samoa PM commends new Head of State for his endurance

Samoa’s Prime Minister says the appointment of the new Head of State, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II today speaks volumes of his character as a devoted servant to his people and his country.

In his congratulatory speech, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi recalled that the Tui Aana was nominated in both the 2007 and 2012 selection for the Head of State together with Tuiatua, however his nominations were unsuccessful.

“It was the will of God,” the Prime Minister said adding that, “Tuimalealiifano should be commended for his endurance.

“And he has endured the test of patience and has prevailed over the test of time. A retired police officer and a prominent legal practitioner, Tuimalealiifano is the longest serving Member of the Deputy of Council,” Tuilaepa said.

A statement from the Ministry of Prime Minister and Cabinet said Parliament today approved the nomination of Tuimalealiifano as Head of State for the next five years.

He succeeds Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi who has held the post for two five year terms since 2007 when the late Head of State, His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II passed away.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the distinguished services provided by Tuiatua during his ten years in office.

“As a former Member of Parliament, a former Member of the Deputy of Council and a former Prime Minister, Tuiatua served our country with excellence. No doubt, he will want to continue his services to our country and may the Almighty reward him for his dedication to the people of Samoa.”

Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Efi was first elected as the Head of State in 2007. Previously he was Prime Minister of Samoa from 1976 to 1982, and again later in 1982.

Tuimalealiifano has been holder of Tama Aiga Title Tuimalealiifano since 1977. 

He holds a Bachelor of Laws from Australian National University, and a Diploma in Theological Studies from Malua Theological College.

He is a former State Solicitor, Public Defender and Public Trustee. 

He is currently a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Samoa and a Member of the Council of Deputies to the Head of State.

He is a Lay Preacher of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa and an Elder Deacon of Aana District.

Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II aka Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano

Appointed to hold one of Samoa's Tama Aiga Titles, Tuimalealiifano, in 1977.

 

Photo by MPMC: Samoa's new Head of State Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II