Samoa’s new Attorney General, Mauga Precious Chang, was sworn in on Monday at the Head of State’s residence in Vailele, formally taking office after serving in an interim capacity since January.

Mauga was appointed interim Attorney General earlier this year following the completion of Su’a Hellene Wallwork’s term and was confirmed to the role after cabinet approval.

Speaking to the media after the ceremony, Mauga outlined plans for the coming years and addressed concerns among government lawyers transitioning into the Attorney General’s Office. She said she and her colleague, Letoafaiga David Fong (DJ Fong), would work closely with staff to support the process.

“I think at this moment there’s a lot of fear among our lawyers in the government because of these sudden changes that have come out with no warning,” Mauga said. “I assure you, my office, DJ Fong, is planning a proper information session for those government lawyers so that they feel that no matter what, our office is there to support them.”

In her official address, Mauga became emotional as she acknowledged her family and the concerns they had about her taking on the role.

“To my parents and family, I know that this decision has been hard for you. I know that you fear me taking this role,” she said. When asked about those comments, Mauga said

“Well, like every parent, they fear when their child takes an office that will always come with public criticism, media attacks, and public attacks,” she said.

Mauga also expressed appreciation to the Prime Minister and Cabinet for their support.

“Today I commit to leading with clarity, to listening with respect, and to making decisions guided not by convenience or popular opinion, but by courage and in the interest of this country,” she said.

“I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the Honourable Prime Minister’s cabinet for the faith placed in me to assume this role. That trust I do not take lightly.”

She also acknowledged the judiciary and committed to strengthening the Attorney General’s Office to meet growing demands and public expectations.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt said the role carried significant responsibility.

“The opportunity to serve your country as Attorney General is indeed a significant milestone,” he said, adding that legal advice provided to the government was pivotal to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public trust.

The ceremony was attended by Head of State Tuimalealiifano Vaʻaletoa Sualauvi II and his wife, cabinet ministers, chief executive officers, members of the opposition and staff of the Attorney General’s Office. The church service was led by the EFKS Apia Reverend Dr Latu Latai.