The Office of the Electoral Commission (OEC) has issued a strong reminder to all candidates and their committees to respect polling station boundaries during Friday’s general election.

The warning follows incidents during Wednesday’s pre-polling where supporters were seen congregating near polling booths in violation of the Electoral Act 2019.

Electoral Commissioner Tuiafelolo John Stanley told the Samoa Observer that such actions risk undermining the fairness and credibility of the voting process.

“The integrity and impartiality of the election must be preserved,” said Tuiafelolo. “Candidates and their supporters need to understand that approaching or influencing voters near polling stations is prohibited under the law. We expect everyone to comply.”

Under the Electoral Act 2019, it is an offence for any person to interfere with or attempt to influence voters within the designated vicinity of a polling booth. Penalties for breaches include fines of up to WST 5,000, imprisonment for up to six months, and, in serious cases, disqualification of the candidate involved.

Tuiafelolo confirmed that the OEC is working closely with the police to monitor polling sites on Friday. Election officers were instructed to report any incidents of illegal campaigning or voter intimidation immediately for investigation.

“We will not hesitate to enforce the law,” Tuiafelolo warned. “If there is clear evidence of a breach, those responsible will face prosecution. We owe it to the people of Samoa to protect the integrity of this democratic process.”

The Commissioner also reminded candidates that they are accountable for the behaviour of their campaign teams. Supporters were urged to stay clear of polling stations and allow voters to cast their ballots freely.

“The right to vote without interference is fundamental,” he said. “We urge everyone to cooperate and ensure polling proceeds smoothly and lawfully.”

Polling booths across Samoa will open early on Friday morning and will close at 3 pm.

The OEC encouraged members of the public to report any instances of illegal campaigning, voter intimidation, or other election-related offences through its hotline or to nearby police officers.

“Together, we can ensure that this election is fair, transparent, and credible,” Tuiafelolo said.