The functions of the Samoa Law Reform Commission have undergone a review by the Public Service Commission (P.S.C.) which is yet to finalise its report.

The Minister of Justice and Courts Administration, Matamua Vasati Pulufana told the Samoa Observer in an exclusive interview on Friday that the P.S.C. is yet to finalise its report on its review of the commission.

She revealed the status of the review of the S.L.R.C. after this newspaper asked her for an update on the appointment of a new executive director for the commission, following the resignation of Teleiai Dr. Lalotoa Mulitalo some 10 months ago.

Matamua said for the interim period until an appointment is finalised, Assistant Executive Director, Sheliza Tupa'i will continue to lead the commission. She said the report from the P.S.C. will advise whether the vacant position will be re-advertised after only three people applied.

"Two from Samoa and one candidate from overseas. I understand there is no internal candidate from S.L.R.C. so the P.S.C. is working on whether they would advertise the position again, with the possibility of considering the applications from those who have applied already," she said. "For the time being, the Assistant Executive Director, Sheliza has been leading the Commission. 

"Her contract has ended but we have made variations to her contract so she can continue being at the helm while the recruitment process continues. That's the update I have at the moment."

Teleiai was the third executive director of the S.L.R.C. which was founded in 2008, following Tafaoimalo Leilani Tuala–Warren and Leota Theresa Potoi and got appointed in 2016. During her six-year appointment, Teleiai oversaw 15 projects and over 40 ad hoc projects.

The core function of the commission is the review, reform and develop laws of Samoa that promote Samoan customs and traditions as well as enhance the social, cultural, economic, and commercial development of Samoa.