By Staff Writer
The one day pre-polling for the Electoral Constituency of Vaimauga 3 bi-elections drew a strong 72 per cent turnout of early voters by the close of polling today, Wednesday 22 February 2023.
There were 170 pre-polling voters listed as the elderly as well as those with physical conditions for the electorate with 122 counted at the close of polling at 4.00pm today.
Polling booths were set up in several village locations within the Vaimauga 3 electorate with easy access for voters.
Many of the elderly were seen accompanied by family members to cast their ballots.
Electoral Commissioner, Tuiafelolo John Stanley, is quietly assured that the eligible voters are not at any disadvantage by missing out today on their vote..
“Polling on Friday is open to all voters so pre-pollers who missed out today will still be able to cast their ballot,” Tuiafelolo re-assured.
Three candidates are vying for the Parliamentary seat vacated by the untimely passing of veteran HRPP opposition MP Tapunuu Niko Lee Hang who passed away recently.
One independent election hopeful is challenging two others as flag bears for each of the main parties, the ruling FAST and the opposition HRPP.