New Ombudsman Vui Clarence Nelson sworn in

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, SAMOA – 28 July 2026: The former senior judge of the Judiciary, Vui Clarence Nelson was sworn-in as the new and third Ombudsman in a ceremony at the Legislative Assembly office yesterday morning.

He took his oath before the Parliament Speaker, Prime Minister and Cabinet and families where he acknowledged the appointment and assured Samoa that he will serve with dignity, honesty, without fear and with love.

Vui was supposed to be sworn-in two weeks ago, however, he had to attend some of the matters abroad in his capacity as a judiciary member.

Vui has served in the Judiciary for more than 20 years and has represented Samoa in several international organizations until his retirement recently.

He thanked the Cabinet for the trust in him and the Head of State for endorsing the appointment enabling him to continue serving Samoa.

The new Ombudsman with the Speaker, Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers, guests and families after the swearing in ceremony at the Office of the Legislative Assembly, Mulinuu.

He also acknowledged his long-time colleagues at the Judiciary who he had served side by side for many years, diplomatic representatives, families and friends.

He apologised to Cabinet and Speaker for not being present at the time the appointment was announced and for the swearing-in ceremony scheduled then.

He noted that his absence has been interpreted incorrectly on social media that he had left to avoid working.

Vui takes over from former lawyer Luamanuvao Katalaina Sapolu Lussick who works with the ACP office of the European Union.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt said the Office of the Ombudsman is one of the Government entities the FAST Government has prioritized when they took office 9 months ago.

The appointment of Vui to serve for the next 6 years was done under the same process where candidates applied through the Public Service Commission (PSC) then passed on to cabinet then the Speaker.

He assured Vui of the Governments confidence in his appointment and asked for his assistance in addressing the many and serious challenges such a crime, domestic violence against children and women, drugs, the impact of climate change and multinational crimes affecting Samoa.