New LTC Judges Pledge to Serve with Honesty

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 22 April 2025 – Four new judges of the Lands and Titles Court (LTC) have pledged to serve Samoa with the honesty and to the best of their ability.

The new Judges are Fonoti Bella Michelene Taua’a, Leugamata Meleisea Faletolu Junior Lofipo, Pesetatamaalelagi Malouamaua Afoa Arasi Tiotio and Tapua’ī Telea Liuga Matale Kamu Potogi.

Presiding over the swearing-in ceremony was the President of the Lands and Titles Court, Lesatele Rapi Vaai.

After the swearing in ceremony, Pesetatamaalelagi spoke on behalf of the new Judges in acknowledging their appointments, the support of families, friends, Ministry and the Commission that recommended them for the appointments.

She said they will conduct their work with honesty and without fear.

Lesatele said the appointments should have been finalised in August last year, however, the timeframe was extended for a thorough assessment.

It is the first time the Ministry of Justice and Courts and Administration (MJICA) implemented a new system in appointing judges for LTC which includes putting them through an exam before selection, shortlist then the interview.

Lesatele told the new judges that being a Judge is not an easy task, and they will face challenges.

“The oath of a Judge should be carried out with honesty, without fear, without love, bias or injustice,” said Lesatele.

Two of the new judges of the Lands & Titles Court, Pesetatamaalelagi Malouamaua Afoa Arasi Tiotio and Fonoti Bella Michelene Taua’a.

The new judges will undergo training by the District Court Judges and Lesatele confirmed that one of the issues in the training is the independence of a judge.

“Whether you are a new judge, you make your own decisions independently,” said Lesatele.

He emphasized that the Court does not recognize the Samoan proverb “E fesili mulimai ia muamai” you stand alone and independent in your decisions.

He said there are times when it is very difficult to decide, then you seek a second opinion from your fellow colleague, but when it comes to the final decision, it’s an independent decision of a judge.

He referred to Reverend Dr. Eteuati Tuioti who spoke of King Solomon’s wisdom in his decision urging the new Judges to be like Solomon.

“But the greatest help is when you kneel and ask God for help,” said Lesatele.

He then wished the new Judges all the best in their new calling.

Lesatele who was critical of the new laws passed in 2020 for the LTC to operate on, acknowledged the Government for the support to the Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration.

He commended the Government for the changes within the Ministry and with the Lands and Titles Court.