CHANGE OF GUARD

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 21 July 2017, 12:00AM

A new chapter in the history of Samoa started yesterday at Tuana’imato.

It began with the changing of the guard in terms of the Head of State when His Highness Tuia’ana Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II took his oath as the new Head of State. By his side was the Masiofo, Her Highness Fa’amausili Leinafo. 

They take over from former Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and his Masiofo, Her Highness Filifilia Tamasese.

The inauguration was witnessed by hundreds of people, including the outgoing Head of State, Members of the Council of Deputies, government leaders, Members of Parliament and families.

The formalities started with a prayer by Chairman of the C.C.C.S. Reverend Elder Tunumoso Iosia. The oath of office was administered by Chief Justice, His Honour  Patu Tiava’asu’e Falefatu Sapolu. 

During his first official speech, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano, noted that he is nothing but a humble servant of God. He thanked everyone who attended the service.

“I thank the Government of Samoa, through the Honorable Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi the Speaker and Members of Parliament for appointing me to this prestigious position,” he said. 

“I am but a humble servant but your prayers and support and the leading of the Holy Spirit will give me the strength to fulfill the duties of the Head of State. 

“Lau Afioga, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and Masiofo Filifilia I acknowledge and applaud your great service of 10 years, wherein you were Head of State. 

“It will not be easy for me to continue where you have left and I will need your support.”

The Head of State also called on everyone to work together. 

“In the spirit of humility, I call upon the people of Samoa, the government, the clergy the traditional leaders, the business community, leaders, family and friends. 

“Let us all work together for continued peace and betterment of Samoa. “Samoa’s Head of State is truly a calling from our Lord, the God Almighty, upon whom Samoa is founded upon. 

“And I am but an instrument, in his hands and I cannot do anything without him. Not unto us o Lord, not unto us but we give you the praise and the glory for your faithfulness and your grace.”

Following the inauguration, there were traditional presentations to the government by the Falelatai District. 

The new Head of State has been holding the Tama Aiga Title, Tuimalealiifano, since 1977. He holds a Bachelor of Laws Degree from The Australian National University, a Diploma in Theological Studies from Malua Theological College. 

His Highness was a Secondary School Teacher, a Police Chief Inspector in Samoa, and in New Zealand for three years. 

A Principal State Solicitor in the Office of the Attorney-General, a former Public Defender with the Justice Department, a former Public Trustee and a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Samoa.

His Highness has been a Member of the Council of Deputies to the Head of State, first in 1993-2001 and later from 2004 to present until his appointment to Head of State. 

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 21 July 2017, 12:00AM

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