OEC investigates registration interference

By Marieta Heidi Ilalio 14 June 2025, 9:00PM

It is illegal for candidates, representatives, and family members to fill out another person's voter registration. This has led the Office of the Electoral Commissioner to no longer accept statutory declarations from Pulenu'u or Sui Tama'ita'i o Nu'u to confirm residence qualifications for online registrations.

The OEC has issued a notice warning the public about reports of online voter registration interference.

Issued on 11 June 2025, the notice says the OEC has received reports of prospective candidates' representatives and family members completing online voter registration portal forms on behalf of other individuals.

"We remind all prospective candidates and their supporters, only the individual registering may complete their voter registration, as required under Sections 13 and 20 of the Electoral Act," the notice says.

OEC reminded the public that Section 153A of the Electoral Act states that any person who obstructs the Commissioner or their delegate in implementing the Act commits an offence, punishable by up to two years imprisonment, a fine up to 50 penalty units or both.

"Even if correct documents are submitted, registrations completed by someone else without lawful authority may constitute an offence," the notice warns.

The notice revealed that all suspicious activity will be investigated and documented, and this includes the evidence of multiple registrations linked to a single person or email. 

"Misuse of the Online Registration Portal may also obstruct the proper administration of the electoral process, especially if it compromises the accuracy of the electoral roll, impartiality of the process, or verification procedures," OEC explained.

The Office of the Electoral Commissioner said they acknowledge that the registration period is currently very busy, and that is not an excuse to shortcut the lawful voter registration process or break the law.

"Upholding the integrity of our electoral process is a shared responsibility that must be respected by all," OEC said.


By Marieta Heidi Ilalio 14 June 2025, 9:00PM
Samoa Observer

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