Honourable Mr Justice Satiu Simativa Perese

Chief Justice of Samoa

Honourable Mr Justice Satiu Simativa Perese serves as Chief Justice of Samoa, appointed on 12 June 2020. With over three decades of experience practising law across New Zealand, Samoa, and the Cook Islands, he brings an extensive and diverse legal background to his work.

He has previously served as a member of the New Zealand Human Rights Review Tribunal (2003–2009) and as President of the Pacific Lawyers Society (2000–2002), reflecting his regional leadership in legal affairs. His career also includes distinguished service as a prosecutor representing Samoa’s Attorney General’s Office in major cases.

He has presided over pivotal judicial decisions, including the landmark May 2021 Supreme Court ruling upholding the original proclamation to convene the 17th Parliament, a judgment that reaffirmed the judiciary’s critical role in maintaining constitutional order during political uncertainty. His leadership is characterised by his unwavering dedication to the rule of law, judicial independence, and the development of a robust legal system in Samoa.