A double referendum on a new constitution and independence took place in Western Samoa on 10 May 1961. A Constitutional Assembly of Matai and associated groups had been elected the previous year to draw 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.

Quick Facts Do you agree with the Constitution, adopted by the Constitutional Convention on 28 October 1960?, Do you agree that on 1 January 1962 Western Samoa should become an independent State on the basis of that Constitution? ...

1961 Western Samoan referendum

10 May 1961
Do you agree with the Constitution, adopted by the Constitutional Convention on 28 October 1960?
For   86.49% Against   13.51%
Do you agree that on 1 January 1962 Western Samoa should become an independent State on the basis of that Constitution?
For   85.40% Against   14.60%

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