Samoa: Snap election to take place on 29 August
Many people converged at the Office of the Electoral Commission (OEC) on 7 June, following a Supreme Court ruling for a snap election to be held within three months of parliament’s dissolution. Approximately 60% of voters were reported to have registered last week in preparation for the snap election on 29 August. The OEC confirmed the timetable for the election as follows:
27 June (5 p.m.) – last day for voter objection applications
4 July (4 p.m.) – closing of the electoral roll
29 August – Polling Day
5 September – results declared
8 September – return of Writ and announcement of elected MPs
Separately, a $3.2 million salary increment proposed by the Remuneration Tribunal for the Ministry of Police and Prisons was stopped due to the failure of the Government to pass its budget.
Assessment: The public turnout at the OEC indicates a high level of public interest in the snap election. Some voters are likely to vote based on their standard of living, traditional FAST party voters are likely to be split between loyalty to the party and the ousted Prime Minister. This may create an opportunity for the HRPP to form a coalition government with either faction. Industrial action is unlikely to occur before or after the election concerning salary increments for the Ministry of Police and Prisons.
Sources: Vaelei Von Dincklage, “People rush to register,” Samoa Observer, June 7, 2025, Sulamanaia Manaui Faulalo, “Election timetable finalised,” Samoa Observer, June 13, 2025, Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong, “Budget fail: Salary rise for police halted,” Samoa Observer, June 9, 2025.
