Confusion around changes to Samoa’s voting system

Changes to the voting system in Samoa have been passed, despite concerns it could shift the entire election outcome.

Samoa’s electoral laws have been changed so citizens living abroad such as seasonal workers and overseas students will be able to vote by postal ballot. Voters must be a citizen of Samoa, aged 21, and have lived in Samoa.

Auckland University senior lecturer Lefaoali'i Dr Dion Enari says there needs to be more clarity around who the changes apply to.

“It’s quite a nuanced situation - so I wouldn’t support Samoan citizens who are third or fourth generation who have never lived a day in Samoa voting, however I also acknowledge Samoan citizens who live six months in New Zealand, six months in Samoa, I believe they have the right to vote.”

The changes are part of a system update to fix scenarios from previous elections where thousands listed on the electoral roll were deceased. Citizens have 18 months to register on the online system from anywhere in the world, but photo ID and fingerprint records must be done in Samoa. Eligible voters must re-register, or face a fine of $100 tala when they enter the country.

Human Rights Protection Party secretary Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi told Radio New Zealand the opposition is concerned about the practicalities of the changes.

“They say that if you don’t register, then don’t come here, don’t come to Samoa and you won’t get a fine. But what happens when you come here to visit, on holiday or whatever?”

Earlier this week, Sagaga No.2 MP Maulolo Tavita Amosa said this could apply to as many as 107,000 Samoans living in New Zealand.

Lefaoali’i says checks and balances need to be in place, given how many citizens live around the world.

“It’s estimated the Samoan diaspora outnumbers those in the islands by over 300 per cent, so just ensuring with different bill changes that it takes everything into account … to ensure that the Samoan voting system does not get overrun by the diaspora.”

There are questions how this might apply to dual citizens.

Speaking to Levi Matautia-Morgan on Pacific Mornings, Lefaoali'i says more clarity from the government is needed.

"I feel all of the confusion will be cleared up if there's a statement direct from the Electoral Commission and direct from the current government highlighting exactly what this bill entails and exactly what this bill does not entail."

Watch the full interview with Lefaoali'i Dr Dion Enari here: