A constitutional referendum was held in Ecuador on 28 September 2008 to ratify or reject the constitution drafted by the Ecuadorian Constituent Assembly elected in 2007.[1] The new constitution was approved by 69% of voters.
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/ae/Ecuador_referendum_poster_london_sept_08.jpg/220px-Ecuador_referendum_poster_london_sept_08.jpg)
Following its approval, early elections were held in April 2009.[2]
Background
President Rafael Correa had initially stated he would resign if the constitution were rejected, but later stated he would finish his term. A poll from May 2008 saw 41% to 31% in favour of the constitution draft.[3] Provisions include the right to healthcare, food, social security, and education as well as an emphasis on Latin American integration. The more controversial proposals include allowing a second four-year term for the president and legalising civil unions.[4]
Conduct
The EU sent an election observation team.[5]
Results
Choice | Votes | % |
---|---|---|
For | 4,722,073 | 69.46 |
Against | 2,075,764 | 30.54 |
Invalid/blank votes | 588,755 | - |
Total | 7,386,592 | 100 |
Registered voters/turnout | 9,754,883 | 75.81 |
Source: Direct Democracy |
References
- ^ Ecuador Assembly Approves Constitution Prensa Latina
- ^ Assembly Defines Ecuador Transition Prensa Latina
- ^ Ecuadorians Assess Vote on New Constitution Angus Reid Global Monitor]
- ^ Ecuador's poor bank on referendum BBC News, 27 September 2008
- ^ European Union sends Election Observation Mission to Ecuador Europa, 15 September 2008