The Land and Titles Court welcomed two new Judges yesterday.
Former Assistant Police Commissioner, Leaupepe Fatu Pula and Tiatia Faleupolu Tevita took their oaths to serve Samoa with honesty and intergrity.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, Members of Cabinet, judges, friends, colleagues and relatives.
Leaupepe and Tiatia were chosen from a shortlist of 18 applicants.
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There were initially 100 people who applied. Chief Justices Patu Tiaavasue Falefatu reminded the new Judges about the importance of their roles.
“Your positions as Land and Title Court judges come with great responsibility,” he said.
“You must be fearless in your judgment and do what is right.”
His Honour Patu warned that there would be times when they would face challenges and questions of conflict of interests in what they do.
“But do not lose faith in what you have been tasked to do,” he encouraged.
From Gatavai Palauli, Savai’i, Tiatia was thankful.
“I feel very happy and I just want to thank God for blessing me with the new role,” he said. “I will do my work with honesty, truthfully just like we vowed today.”
Tiatia was a former employee of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. Leaupepe Fatu Pula needs little introduction.
“My appointment is a continuation of my service to our country,” said the former Assistant Police Commissioner.
“I have done my part with the police force now its time for me to move forward.”
Leaupepe, 54 years old, is from the villages of Sale’imoa and Fasitoo-uta.
He is married to Samaria and has seven children.
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