1958 French Polynesian constitutional referendum

A referendum on the new constitution of France was held in French Polynesia on 28 September 1958 as part of a wider referendum held across the French Union. The new constitution would see the country become part of the new French Community if accepted, or result in independence if rejected. It was approved by 64.40% of voters.[1]

French Polynesia
This article is part of a series on the
politics and government of
French Polynesia

Campaign

Some members of the Democratic Rally of the Tahitian People (RDPT), which had been removed from power by the Governor in April 1958, backed a 'no' vote. Government officials restricted campaigning by opponents of the new constitution, and in some outlying islands, voters were unaware that 'no' was an option.[2]

Results

The result saw 64% of voters vote in favour of the constitution. However, Pacific Islands Monthly noted that it was thought by some that 'no' would have won had the RDPT been allowed to campaign properly.[2]

Choice Votes %
For16,19664.40
Against8,95235.60
Invalid/blank votes99–
Total25,247100
Registered voters/turnout30,95081.57
Source: Direct Democracy

Aftermath

Following the referendum, there was civil unrest in Tahiti, with RDPT supporters starting fires with molotov cocktails on 10–11 October.[2] As a result of the violence, RDPT leader Pouvanaa a Oopa and 22 supporters were arrested.[2] Oopa was subsequently convicted of arson and exiled to France.

References
  1. Frankreich, 28. September 1958 : Verfassung Direct Democracy
  2. Pouvanaa and 22 Others Arrested Pacific Islands Monthly, November 1958, pp19–20
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.