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

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