Scores of people converged on the Office of the Electoral Commissioner on Saturday in a rush to get registered for the general election in August.

The court declared that the election needed to be held within three months. This decision has led to a shortened voter registration period. At the end of last week, almost 60 per cent of the voter population had registered.

The OEC was packed on Saturday with tents set up to accommodate people. The cars on the road caused minor traffic holdups, and the police were called in to manage the crowd.

The Samoa Observer spoke to people lining up to register. Many felt that if they wanted elected leaders who would bring about change, they needed to get their voices heard.

"This is the only way we can put those we want to run this country in power. We have to register and vote. There is no point in blasting all those two cents on social media and you don't even vote. We can say all that we have to say about certain people, but if we don't vote, there is no way you and I can get those out of power or vice versa," said Josephine Tulei. 

The OEC office has also put out a notice to notify the public of the two other places where they can register. The two venues are Gym 1, Tuanaimato and the TATTE building Conference Room, Ground Floor. These two venues are open on Saturdays from 9 am to 4p m, and Mondays from 9 am to 8 pm. 

Police Commissioner, Auapaau Logoitino Filipo, also confirmed the assistance of the Ministry of Police as Samoa prepares for the upcoming election in August. 

"Friday, we met up with the OEC Commissioner on this matter. As we all know, the court has already set the date for the election, and our Ministry have long been prepared for these scenarios. Whether the parliament dissolves, court cases, and we know that it will come to this stage," he said. 

"We have prepared for it, so the only thing we discussed on Friday was the registration venues.

"I believe we have a few more weeks left for registration. We have assigned officers to these venues as we expect people to be coming in large numbers. We are prepared for anything that may come up."

Auapaau said the police have been vigilant, and so far, there were no threats that would undermine public safety and the security of individuals.

"The Ministry is monitoring all situations from hereon until the election date. We also ask that if anyone is planning on committing illegal activities during this period, we strongly advise you to think twice."