1938 Romanian constitutional referendum

A constitutional referendum was held in the Kingdom of Romania on 24 February 1938 to approve a new constitution granting dictatorial powers to King Carol II.[1] Voting was done by answering yes or no before an election bureau, with silence marked as yes. Voting was compulsory, and the amendments were approved by 99.87% of voters.[1] The voting process has been described as deeply flawed and characterized by widespread intimidation.[2]

Background

The proposed changes to the constitution included:[1]

  • Giving the King the power to legislate and sole power to amend the constitution
  • Making the government solely responsible to the King
  • Allowing the King to dissolve Parliament at any time and rule by decree
  • Limiting the Parliament to bringing in laws in the "national interest"
  • Making the second chamber 50% appointed by the King and the remainder from professional organisations
  • Raising the voting age from 21 to 30
  • Prohibiting "revolutionary propaganda"

Results

Choice Votes %
For4,297,58199.87
Against5,4830.13
Invalid/blank votes0
Total4,303,064100
Registered voters/turnout
Source: Direct Democracy
99.87%
Yes

References

  1. Romania, 24 February 1938: Constitution Direct Democracy
  2. "Istoria unui dezacord: Uninominalul" (PDF). December 2008. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
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