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.
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Do you approve the text of the new Political Constitution of the Republic prepared by the Constituent Assembly? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
 Poster aimed at the Ecuadorian diaspora in London | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
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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 Cedatos/Gallup poll from May 2008 saw 41% in favour of the constitution draft, 31% against, and 28% not sure.[3] Another Cedatos/Gallup poll from June 2008 showed 37% support.[4]
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.[5]
Conduct
The EU sent an election observation team.[6]
Results
| Choice | Votes | % | |
|---|---|---|---|
| For | 4,722,073 | 69.46 | |
| Against | 2,075,764 | 30.54 | |
| Total | 6,797,837 | 100.00 | |
| Valid votes | 6,797,837 | 92.03 | |
| Invalid/blank votes | 588,755 | 7.97 | |
| Total votes | 7,386,592 | 100.00 | |
| Registered voters/turnout | 9,754,883 | 75.72 | |
| Source: Direct Democracy | |||