1938 Uruguayan constitutional referendum

A double referendum on constitutional reform was held in Uruguay on 27 March 1938. Both sets of reforms were approved by voters.[1][2]

Proposed changes

The first set of reforms had been proposed in a constitutional law on 30 December 1936.[1] They would recognise the "lema" system of factions within political parties and allow several presidential candidates for each lema.[1] The most voted for candidate from the most voted for lema would win the presidential election.[1] The law would also reorganise the Senate.[1]

The second set of reforms were put forward by the General Assembly on 24 February 1938.[2] They would restrict each lema to a single candidate for president, as well as reorganising local government.[2] As this was an administrative initiative by two-fifths of the Assembly, a majority of registered voters voting in favour was required.[2] This was achieved, with 52.47% of all registered voters approving the reforms.[2]

Results

Proposal I

Choice	Votes	%
For	333,802	93.45
Against	23,385	6.55
Invalid/blank votes		–
Total	357,187	100
Registered voters/turnout	636,171
Source: Direct Democracy

Proposal II

Choice	Votes	%
For	333,802	97.99
Against	6'847	2.01
Invalid/blank votes		–
Total	340,649	100
Registered voters/turnout	636,171
Source: Direct Democracy

See also

• Uruguayan Constitution

References

1. Uruguay, 27 March 1938: Constitutional reform I Direct Democracy (in German)
2. Uruguay, 27 March 1938: Constitutional reform II Direct Democracy (in German)