The preliminary winner of the Vaimauga No. 3 by-election says he was surprised at his victory in a Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) stronghold.
According to preliminary count results, more than 2,700 votes were cast with the FAST party candidate Lautimuia Uelese Vaai gaining 1,425 to the HRPP's Samau Timani Samau's just over 1,000 votes.
The official results are expected to be announced today and if confirmed will see FAST secure 32 seats in the 51 seat parliament.