Preliminary results from Samoa’s snap election show Laʻauli Leuatea Schmidt’s FAST Party in the lead, ahead of Tuilaʻepa Saʻilele Malielegaoi’s HRPP.
As of midday Saturday, the count stood at:
- FAST: 30 seats
- HRPP: 14 seats
- SUP (led by Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa): 3 seats
- Independents: 4 seats
While special votes and women’s seats are still to be added, the early results give a strong indication of the final outcome. Aupito William Sio, a former New Zealand MP and Samoan chief, says the result shows the people’s clear choice.
“FAST won the popular vote, and should be allowed to form the new government,” he told RNZ Pacific. “Minor challenges may happen, but rarely do they change the result after the preliminary count.”
Aupito said there is also a widespread sense of relief now that the election is over. “Thank goodness it’s over. People outside of Apia were eager to vote and decide for themselves. After the long campaign, there’s a huge sense of relief.”
He explained that losing candidates in Samoa can only challenge results in court if they receive at least half of the winning vote. Women’s seats will also be confirmed later, once any legal challenges are settled.
Samoa has been going through a leadership transition since 2021, when HRPP lost power after more than 40 years in government. Tuilaʻepa had been prime minister for 23 years but continues to lead HRPP. Aupito said ordinary Samoans, especially in villages, have made it clear they want new leadership.
“The people have spoken loud and clear,” he said.
