Samoan referendum, 1961
A double referendum on a new constitution and independence took place in Western Samoa on 10 May 1961. A Constitutional Convention of Matai and associated groups had drawn up a proposed constitution. It reflected the Westminster system of parliamentary democracy, but restricted both standing and voting in elections to the Matai.[1] The referendums were supervised by the United Nations, and with both approved, the country gained independence on 1 January the following year.
Results
Independence
Do you agree that on 1 January 1962 Western Samoa should become an independent State on the basis of that Constitution?[2]
Choice |
Votes |
% |
For | 29,882 | 85.40 |
Against | 5,108 | 14.60 |
Invalid/blank votes | 2,907 | – |
Total | 37,897 | 100 |
Source: Direct Democracy |
New constitution
Do you agree with the Constitution, adopted by the Constitutional Convention on 28 October 1960?[3]
Choice |
Votes |
% |
For | 31,426 | 86.49 |
Against | 4,909 | 13.51 |
Invalid/blank votes | 1,562 | – |
Total | 37,897 | 100 |
Source: Direct Democracy |
References