The Pacific Islands Forum Secretary-General Henry Puna has congratulated Fiame Naomi Mata’afa on her confirmation as Samoa’s new Prime Minister.

In a statement released on Sunday by the PIF headquarters, Mr Puna congratulated the Fa’atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi (F.A.S.T.) party leader and described her elevation as a historic moment for both Samoa and the region.

“I offer my congratulations to the Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa on being confirmed as the Prime Minister of Samoa,” the PIF statement reads. 

“As Samoa’s first woman Prime Minister, it is a historic moment for Samoa and our Forum family.

“I wish Prime Minister Mata’afa all the best as she takes on the role at a most unprecedented time in our global history. 

“The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat reaffirms its commitment to Samoa, its people and its leaders.”

Mr Puna’s statement follows the handing down of a landmark judgement last Friday by the Court of Appeal, which dismissed an appeal by the Attorney-General against the F.A.S.T. party’s 24 May 2021 swearing-in and ruled Fiame’s party is the official Government of Samoa.

The Secretary-General also appealed to all parties involved to continue to uphold the rule of law and carry out the necessary steps to ensure the peaceful transfer of power. 

“I also commend the Samoan people for allowing the democratic, constitutional and legal processes to take their proper course,” he said.

“As espoused under the Biketawa Declaration, it is important for Samoa and our region that all is done to uphold respect for the rule of law, democratic process, and the peaceful transfer of power.”

The leadership of the former Prime Minister Tuilaepa Dr. Sa'ilele Malielegaoi was also acknowledged by the Secretary-General

“I acknowledge the distinguished tenure of Hon. Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Neioti Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi, and his able leadership of Samoa and in the region over the last 22 years," he said.

“Hon. Malielegaoi will remain a great leader and elder statesman of Samoa and indeed our Blue Pacific continent.”

The congratulatory message from the Secretary-General follows similar messages sent by the Prime Ministers of New Zealand and Australia late last Friday, with Jacinda Ardern and Scott Morrison following that up with separate telephone calls to Fiame on Saturday.