Republic of the Congo constitutional referendum, 2002

Republic of the Congo
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politics and government of
the Republic of the Congo

A constitutional referendum was held in the Republic of the Congo on 20 January 2002, with results showed over 87% voted in favour with a voter turnout of 77.5%.

Background

The proposed new constitution would make the country a presidential republic. It had been written in 2001 and approved by a National Transitional Council in 2002 before being put to a referendum.[1] Changes from the old constitution increased presidential terms to seven years and abolished the post of Prime Minister.[2] It established a bicameral legislature and instituted several requirements in order to be able to stand for President.[3]

The government described the referendum as paving the way for elections and welcomed the results.[4] However the opposition urged that voters boycott the referendum as they said that the new constitution would give too much power to the President.[4] Human rights groups said that the referendum, which took place without international observers, had seen irregularities.[4]

Results

Choice Votes %
For1,113,95587.83
Against154,37512.17
Invalid/blank votes49,908-
Total1,318,238100
Source: African Elections Database

References

  1. ↑ "Background Note: Republic of the Congo". United States Department of State. Retrieved 2009-07-13.
  2. ↑ "African Elections Database". African Elections Database. Retrieved 2009-07-13.
  3. ↑ "Election Profile". IFES Election Guide. Retrieved 2009-07-13.
  4. 1 2 3 "Congo approves new constitution". BBC News Online. 2002-01-24. Retrieved 2009-07-13.
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