Samoa votes!

Polling was orderly and the queues good natured as Samoa began its day of national elections.

Those who had voted already were proud to show off their purple thumbs – the result of indelible ink marked on those who have already gone to a polling station and voted - and a clear indication that someone has participated in a vital function of democratic governance.

More than 128,000 Samoans are eligible to vote and voting is compulsory. There are 192 candidates standing, of whom 22 are women, contesting 51 seats for a five-year term in the legislative assembly.

This election will see some changes to the electoral laws, which are aimed at improving transparency. Some of these changes include pre-polling for the elderly and disabled, and changes to the rules regarding political candidates transporting and feeding voters heading to the polls.

Preliminary results of the election are likely to be announced tonight.