The Prime Minister in his address said today’s ceremony is a testament to a new beginning and
direction for all new citizens who have taken their oaths as citizens of Samoa.
“It is the affirmation of your allegiance and commitment to serve your newly adopted country
with compassion, love, respect, and integrity, as you know Samoa is a Christian nation which
observes the fundamental doctrine of “loving your neighbor as you love yourself’,” said
Tuilaepa.

“The Government and people of Samoa congratulate you all and welcome you as citizens of
Samoa.
“Our citizenship speaks volume of our identity, inheritance, and authority as Samoans,” the Prime
Minister continued. “It is our God-given right to live freely and harmoniously on this beautiful
island and to exercise our unique talents, wisdom, and knowledge to contribute to the social and
economic well-being of Samoa.”
“Today you have been given that right. The right that must be treated with the utmost respect and
truthfulness.”
The new citizenships granted today were by marriage and by permanent residency.
 The 14 new citizens are:
 Mr Eliseo Rossi from Italy;
 Mrs Lorina Sauila from Australia;
 Mr Prem Chand from Fiji;
 Mr Rodney David Greed from Australia;
 Mr Shashi Ashwin Prasad from Fiji;
 Mr Sione Moala Fifita from Tonga;
 Mrs Suneeta Prasad from Fiji;

 Mrs Tekimatanga Uilelea from Solomon Islands;
 Mr Hamza Shahijahan and his wife Mehidi from Bangladesh with their four children
Hana Shahijahan, Harris Shahijahan, MD Shahijahan and Hazera Akter.