Jamaican News

Central African Republic overwhelmingly votes yes on constitutional referendum

Marie-Madeleine-Hoornaert-NKouet

BANGUI, Central African Republic _ Central African Republic’s National Election Authority says final results show citizens have voted yes on a constitutional referendum meant to bring stability to a nation wracked by years of sectarian violence.

Election official Marie-Madeleine N’Kouet Hoornaert said that 93 per cent of voters approved the referendum, while 7 per cent voted against it according to final results published Monday. Hoornaert said participation was about 38 per cent.

The Dec. 13 referendum vote was seen as a test for much-delayed national elections taking place Dec. 27. Violence that killed five and threats of attacks delayed the vote in some areas.

The referendum creates a senate, allows freedom of worship and prohibits religious fundamentalism. The referendum also says perpetrators of coups cannot hold public office. Central African Republic has been highly volatile since early 2013.

The Associated Press

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