Samoan referendum, 1961

This article is part of a series on the
politics and government of
Samoa

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 %
For29,88285.40
Against5,10814.60
Invalid/blank votes2,907
Total37,897100
Source: Direct Democracy

New constitution

Do you agree with the Constitution, adopted by the Constitutional Convention on 28 October 1960?[3]
Choice Votes %
For31,42686.49
Against4,90913.51
Invalid/blank votes1,562
Total37,897100
Source: Direct Democracy

References

  1. Nohlen, D, Grotz, F & Hartmann, C (2001) Elections in Asia: A data handbook, Volume II, p780 ISBN 0-19-924959-8
  2. West-Samoa, 10. Mai 1961 : Unabhängigkeit Direct Democracy
  3. West-Samoa, 10. Mai 1961 : Verfassung Direct Democracy
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