Sili Elizabeth Chan-Tung Peters was officially sworn in as a District Court judge on Tuesday, marking a major milestone in a legal career spanning more than four decades.

The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Supreme Court. It attracted strong public interest, with the courtroom filled with family members, friends, lawyers, and court staff who gathered to congratulate the newly appointed judge.

Judge Sili thanked those who supported her journey, including her husband, Tuautu Ross Peters, her children and grandchildren, as well as extended family and friends. 

She said she was grateful to have been selected for the role and was thankful that her 87-year-old father, Tavita Chan-Tung, the only surviving parent following the passing of her mother, Asopogisa Pamata Tauati Chan-Tung, was present to witness the occasion.

She is widely known among her peers as a humble and grounded person.

Judge Sili was sworn in before Chief Justice Satiu Simativa Perese, alongside other members of the judiciary, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration, Papali’i John Taimalelagi, and court staff.

Also in attendance were lawyers, the Minister of Justice and Court Administrations Fesola'i Apulu Tuigamala, the Acting Attorney General, Mauga Precious Chang, Deputy Prime Minister Toelupe Poumulinuka Onesemo, members of parliament, and the Speaker.

Her warrant of appointment was issued by the Head of State, acting on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission. Her appointment takes effect on January 23 2026

Judge Sili is the fifth woman to be appointed as a judge in Samoa.

Judge Sili began her professional career in 1981 at the Public Trust Office. She later served as a deputy registrar and worked in New Zealand before returning to Samoa. She was admitted to the Samoa Bar in February 2015 and has appeared across the Samoa courts.

She also has leadership experience, having served as secretary of the Samoa Law Society in 2021 and 2022, where she was described as an active and committed member. 

Judge Sili’s academic excellence dates back to her school years. In 1979, she was dux of Leififi Intermediate School and the overall dux of the Form 2 national examinations in Samoa. She later became the head girl of Samoa College in 1983.

“She was the smartest, but also very low-key and humble,” said her childhood friend, Sala Rexie Esera-Ah Sue, in her testimony.

In 1984, the year the National University of Samoa was established at Malifa, Judge Sili completed her foundation studies and was awarded a scholarship to pursue further studies in Australia.

Judge Sili is married to Tuautu Ross Peters and has children who have pursued successful careers, with some still studying at university. She is also a grandmother to two grandchildren.