Today is the last day of pre-polling in Samoa for the by-election for the Fa'asaleleaga No 2 Electoral Constituency.
Acting Electoral Commissioner Faimalomatumua Mathew Lemisio Photo: SUPPLIED / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
The contest for the Fa'asaleleaga Number 2 constituency will be held on Friday but pre-polling began on Monday with several voters taking advantage of the new option.
Voting in Samoa is now compulsory and the Electoral Commissioner said they were trying to make the process easier.
Faimalomatumua Mathew Lemisio said the change had been well received, especially by those with special needs.
"We are trying to encourage people to participate in this process on their own free will. And having enough time through the pre-polling for our elderly, you know, people with disabilities and those who are travelling overseas throughout the election week, will give them a lot of opportunity or the chance to participate."
The by-election in Savai'i is due to the death of the sitting MP, Pa'u Sefo Pa'u, in January.
Four candidates are competing for Fa'asaleleaga number 2, including two candidates from the ruling HRPP party, one from Samoa First and an independent who is a son of the late MP.