The one challenge for a recount in the 2020 general elections related to the House of Representatives election in District #1 Manu’a -Ta’u, Faleasao and Fitiuta.
Incumbent faipule Vesi Fautanu Jr, who lost by one vote to Alumamalu Ale Sea Filoialii asserted that the one vote difference resulted from ballots cast on Election Day and absentee ballots not accounted for.
Election Commissioner Dr Lealofi Uiagalelei responded in a November 6 letter that a review of the election results in District #1, certified by the poll supervisor showed that one ballot was openly declared void during the counting because the ballot paper had marked more names than could be elected.
He said declaration of the single void ballot was witnessed by poll watchers including one from Vesi’s camp and no one objected.
On that basis Dr. Uiagalelei determined that the void declaration by the poll supervisor was legal.
Additionally he said if the void declaration is reversed and the ballot is validated and counted it would increase Alumamalu’s vote tally.
Vesi had also questioned why some absentee ballots were not counted.
Dr Uiagalelei explained that the law provides that absentee ballots must be received by the Chief Election Officer no later than 1:30 pm on Election Day. Any absentee ballots that are received after that deadline must not be opened but disposed of
Uiagalelei informed Vesi that pursuant to the election results of District #1, certified by the poll supervisor, all absentee ballots received before 1:30 pm on Election Day were counted and included in the final tally.
The Election Commissioner advised the incumbent representative that he firmly stands behind the final results for District #1 as certified and submitted to the Election Office.
