As Samoa heads into its 2025 general election, concerns have emerged over whether candidates with criminal convictions or pending court cases are eligible to stand. 

Reports indicate that some individuals seeking office may have past convictions or ongoing legal matters, prompting questions about the integrity of the candidate pool.

The Samoa Observer sought clarification from Electoral Commissioner Tuiafelolo John Stanley, who explained that under Samoa’s Electoral Act 2019, individuals are disqualified from contesting elections if they have been convicted of an offence punishable by imprisonment for four years or more. Convictions that resulted in fines or shorter prison sentences do not affect eligibility.

Tuiafelolo noted that the timing of a conviction also matters. Candidates who have fully served sentences more than eight years ago remain eligible to run. “If a conviction was fully served eight years ago, the person can still run in the election,” he said, stressing that the law allows for rehabilitation while maintaining accountability.

Regarding pending court cases, Tuiafelolo clarified that ongoing legal proceedings do not automatically bar a candidate. Only a final conviction carrying a sentence of four or more years in prison will prevent someone from standing. “If someone is convicted and sentenced to a term of four or more years imprisonment, then the candidate won’t be able to run in the election,” he said.

The clarification comes amid growing public scrutiny over candidate backgrounds. 

Tuiafelolo urged voters to stay informed and verify candidate backgrounds through official channels. He emphasised the role of the electorate in holding candidates accountable and understanding the rules that govern elections. The Electoral Commission has assured the public that it will enforce the law rigorously to ensure only eligible candidates appear on the ballot.