O le Ao o le Malo

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O le Ao o le Malo is the Samoan head of state, which is the title's rough translation. (A more literal translation might be "the chieftain of the government" — ao is a title generally reserved for chiefs, while malo means "government").

The position is essentially ceremonial, with actual power being held by the Prime Minister. When Samoa became independent in 1962, two o le Ao o le Malo were appointed for life — Malietoa Tanumafili (born 4 January 1913) and Tupua Tamasese Mea'ole (born 1905). Tupua Tamasese Mea'ole has died in 1963, leaving Malietoa Tanumafili as the sole holder of the office. Upon his death, replacements will be elected by parliament for terms of five years.

There is sometimes debate or confusion as to whether o le Ao o le Malo should be seen as the ceremonial president of a republic or as a monarch. On the side of considering the office a presidency, it is noted that successors will be elected for a fixed term from among the general population, that office-holders can be dismissed by parliament, and that it lacks the styles and forms common to monarchy. On the side of considering the office a monarchy, the current office-holder does so for life, and is a member of the traditional Samoan nobility with the Royal dignity of His Highness. Some argue that Samoa is currently a monarchy, but will cease to be so upon the current leader's death. The constitution of Samoa does not define the country either as a monarchy or a republic.