The Ministry of Justice and Court CEO and also Secretary to the Judicial Services Commission has officially confirmed the appointment of Justice Lesatele Rapi Vaai for a temporary period of 12 months.
Mrs. Moliei Simi Vaai in a press statement said the appointment for Justice Lesatele is made pursuant to article 71 of the Constitution.
Justice Lesatele is a highly esteemed, retired Supreme Court judge who has extensive experience and expertise in all aspect of the work of the Court,” the press statement noted.
He has been appointed to assist the Judiciary with current pre-electoral challenges, given the number of matters that have been filed, and the statutory timeframe within which these matters are to be dealt with.
His appointment is also in anticipation of any post-election challenges that may be brought before the Supreme Court and any other matters where the Court sees fit to ensure that the work of the Supreme Court continues to run smoothly without any undue delays over the next 12 months of his appointment.
Justice Lesatele was sworn in this morning by the Head of State His Highness, Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aleto’a Sualauvi II at the Head of State’s Official Resident at Vailele.