Government

The 1960 constitution (which formally came into force with independence on January 1 1962) is based on the British pattern of parliamentary democracy modified to take Samoan customs into account. The present head of state Malietoa Tanumafili II the scion of a traditional royal line holds his position for life. Future heads of state will be elected by the Legislative Assembly for 5-year terms. The head of state appoints the prime minister (head of government) and with the advice of the prime minister the members of the Cabinet. Cabinet ministers hold office as long as they command the confidence of the Legislative Assembly. The Parliament consists of the Legislative Assembly and the head of state.

The Legislative Assembly has 49 members of whom 47 are elected by universal adult suffrage on a territorial basis. Only matais can stand for these 47 seats in the Legislative Assembly. Two remaining two members are non-matais of foreign heritage who are elected by members registered on an Individual Voters Roll. All terms of office are 5 years. The Supreme Court is the superior court of record and has full jurisdiction in civil criminal and constitutional matters. Its chief justice is appointed by the head of state on the recommendation of the prime minister. Western Samoa is divided into districts for purposes of government service in health education police and agriculture. The only district officer is the administrator on Savai'i.