The Supreme Court welcomed two new Judges yesterday.

At the Head of State’s residence at Tuaefu, Justice Vaepule Alo Vaemoa Vaai and Justice Leiataualesa Daryl Clarke took their oaths to serve Samoa faithfully before colleagues, families and friends.

The Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, welcomed the two new Judges.

The ceremony was attended by the Chief Justice, His Honour Patū Tiava’asu’e Falefatu Sapolu, the Minister of Justice and Court Administration, Fa’aolesa Katopau Ainu’u, Members of Diplomatic Corps, relatives and friends of the two new Justices. 

In addressing the two new Justices, His Highness Tui Atua congratulated them and wished them God’s blessings for their new journey.

Justice Vaepule had been a Judge for the District Court for nearly two decades while Justice Leiataualesa was appointed to the District Court in January this year. Justice Vaepule and Justice Leiataualesa will join Chief Justice Patu, Justice Vui Clarence Nelson, Justice Mata Tuatagaloa, Justice Tafaoimalo Leilani Tuala-Warren and Justice Lesatele Rapi Vaai in the Supreme Court.

Their promotion leaves some positions vacant in the District Court which means more Judges are expected to be announced soon.