With just over 11 weeks until Samoa’s snap general election, many people lined up at Gym 1 in Tuanaimato to register on Monday morning, signalling strong public interest in the upcoming vote.

People of all ages—from young adults to elders—arrived on foot, by taxi, or in private vehicles. Some carried babies as they waited in the foldable seats of the gymnasium. Police officers were present while Electoral Commission staff managed the stream for registrations.

Loudspeaker announcements reminded people of required documents. While many were patient, others voiced frustration over the slow pace.

For some, it was their first time registering. “It is important for me to register so I can have a say on who should be running our country,” said Leitu, 22, of Sagaga 4. “All my family and cousins are running, I’m still deciding who to support.”

Patrick, 21, from Vaigaga, also registering for the first time, said he came as soon as he woke up. “I’m looking for a government that loves the country. It’s really important for people to register.”

For Iulia of Lepa, the act of registering was about having a voice. “I want to vote for a party that puts God first and works to improve our country.”

Some acknowledged recent enforcement messages. “I heard that if I don’t register, I’ll be fined $2,000,” said Ata Alii from Tafaigata. “But I’ll vote for whoever loves the people and whoever God chooses.”

Others, like Anna from Aana 1, were clear on their hopes: “I want a party that brings peace and represents us well to other countries.”

The Electoral Commissioner Tuiafelolo John Stanley confirmed via email response that the  "OEC has opened centralised booths" for voter registration. 

These booths can be found on the ground floor of the Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi (TATTE) Conference Centre and Gym 1 at Tuanaimato. This will open for three weeks until the rolls are closed.

Registration continues in the lead-up to the snap election with officials encouraging all eligible Samoans to make their voices heard.