Tuimaleali’ifano reappointed Head of State for five more years

By Lagi Keresoma

APIA, SAMOA – 23 AUGUST 2022: Parliament today endorsed the reappointment of Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi 11 as Head of State for five more years.

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa announced Cabinet’s decision then the Speaker asked for Parliament’s endorsement which was unanimous.

Tuimalealiifano had already served 5 years of his 10 year tenure as Head of State.

He is the second Head of State to be appointed under Article 21 of the Constitution after Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi in June 2007.

The position of Head of State was jointly held by the late Tupua Tamasese Meaole and Malietoa Tanumafili 11 when Samoa became independent in 1962.

In 1963, Tupua passed on and Malietoa continued to serve until his passing in 2007.

The Government then activated Article 21 of the Constitution and appointed Tui Atua as Head of State who served two five year terms.

Changes to Head of State Act
Prime Minister Fiame also clarified in parliament the two changes made to the Head of State Act in 2019.

One, the Head of State will only hold two five year terms in office.

Two, the honorary salutation of His Highness the Head of State – Ao Mamalu o le Malo was changed to Head of State – Ao o le Malo only, while his wife that used to be addressed “Masiofo” was changed to simply “Faletua.”

These changes were endorsed by Parliament in 2019 under the Human Rights Protection Party.

Fiame also acknowledged that since its inauguration in 1962, the post had mainly been held by the Tama Aiga title holders although the qualifications of a nominee or the holder are the same as that as a Member of Parliament.

Fiame said this reflects the general notion of respect the Members of Parliament have for the holder of the Head of State’s position.