Talofa lava and warm greetings to you all.
Lau Susuga i le Ta’ita’i o le Sauniga – Reverend Pati Crichton
Associate Minister Vui Sione I’iga
Acting Commissioner Leiātaua Samuelu Afamasaga, Management and staff of the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services
Our partners from the Australian Federal Police, New Zealand Police, Pacific Transnational Crime Coordination Centre [P.T.C.C.C.] and Commissioner of the Fire and Emergency Services Authority [S.F.E.S.A.]
Distinguished guests, families and friends
Most importantly, the 83 officers we honour today.
Good morning to you all in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.
Today is an important occasion for the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services S.P.P.C.S. and for our country as a whole.
As Prime Minister and Minister responsible for Police, Prisons and Corrections Services, it gives me great pride to stand before you as we recognise the promotion of eighty-three [83] dedicated officers who have committed themselves to serving and protecting the people of Samoa.
This ceremony is more than a celebration of new ranks. It is a formal recognition of proven leadership, unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our people.
Promotion within the S.P.P.C.S. is not a reward simply for years served; it is a calling to greater responsibility.
To those being promoted today: you have demonstrated your ability to perform under pressure while serving our communities on the frontlines of policing. Today, you are entrusted with an even greater duty – to lead and guide the officers who stand beside you on those frontlines.
As you step into these new roles, remember this: leadership is not about authority or power; leadership is about service.
To your subordinates, you must be their shield, their mentor and their example.
To the public, you are the face of justice and often the first source of reassurance in times of uncertainty and need.
The Government’s priority is to ensure a safe and prosperous Samoa. We cannot achieve prosperity without peace, and we cannot maintain peace without a professional, disciplined and modern Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services.
As your Minister, I remain committed to ensuring that you are prepared with the necessary resources, training and legislative support required to carry out your duties effectively. In return, I ask for your unwavering dedication to the highest ethical and professional standards.
The trust the public places in the Police and Prisons Services is delicate. It is earned slowly through consistent service, yet it can be lost very quickly. Therefore, wear your new rank with humility, discipline and honour.
To the families gathered here today: this achievement belongs to you as well.
Behind every late shift, every missed family occasion and every demanding day of service, there is a family providing strength, patience and support. Thank you for your sacrifice. Your encouragement at home enables these officers to serve our nation with dedication and resilience.
I also acknowledge and thank our regional and international partners, stakeholders, and supporting agencies for their continued assistance to the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services.
Your support through training, resources, and cooperation continues to strengthen our service and our ability to protect and serve the people of Samoa. Faafetai for your partnership and commitment.
To the 83 Officers being promoted today, as you leave this ceremony, do not simply wear your new rank – live it.
- Lead with Integrity – Be the leaders who inspire the next generation of recruits.
- Serve with Humility – Be the officers who strengthen public trust and make our communities feel safe.
- Carry out your duties with discipline and professionalism.
And always remember that you carry not only your responsibilities, but also the honour and reputation of this nation upon your shoulders.
Congratulations on your well-earned promotions.
Now, let us continue the work of serving our people and our country.
FA’AFETAI
SOIFUA MA IA MANUIA
