Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt was sworn in on Tuesday as Samoa’s new prime minister, alongside 31 successful candidates of his Faatuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi, during a ceremony at the Tuanaimato Multipurpose Gymnasium.

The Head of State of Samoa, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II, formally acknowledged the occasion, extending well wishes to Laaulialemalietoa as he begins leading the country for the next five years.

In his remarks, the Head of State congratulated all newly sworn-in Members of Parliament and recognised the election of the new Speaker of the House, Auapaau Mulipola Aloitafua. He also paid tribute to former prime minister Fiame Naomi Mataʻafa for her years of service and the outgoing government for their leadership.

The Head of State urged the nation’s leaders to work together in unity, reminding them to keep God at the centre of their service. He offered his blessings to all those sworn in, encouraging them to carry out their responsibilities faithfully and in peace. He further acknowledged those in attendance at the ceremony and extended his words to the people of Samoa as a whole.

Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II officially announced the official opening of the 18th Parliamentary swearing-in.