1958 New Caledonian constitutional referendum

A referendum on the new constitution of France was held in New Caledonia on 28 September 1958 as part of a wider referendum held across the French Union. If accepted, the new constitution would see the country become part of the new French Community. If rejected, the referendum would result in independence. It was approved by 98.12% of voters.[1]

New Caledonia
This article is part of a series on the
politics and government of
New Caledonia

Campaign

In August 1958 the leaders of the two main parties, Maurice Lenormand of the Caledonian Union and Georges Chatenay of the National Centre of Social Republicans, met French President Charles de Gaulle and committed to advocate for a 'yes' vote.[2]

The Caledonien newspaper attacked Governor Aimé Grimald for supporting the 'yes' campaign.[2] Some trade unionists opposed supporting the new constitution, arguing that de Gaulle was aligned with the wealthy.[2]

Results

Voters were asked the question "Do you approve of the Constitution proposed by the Government of the Republic".[3]

Choice Votes %
For26,08598.12
Against5001.88
Invalid/blank votes443–
Total27,028100
Registered voters/turnout35,16376.86
Source: Direct Democracy

References
  1. Frankreich, 28. September 1958 : Verfassung Direct Democracy
  2. New constitution in French South Pacific Pacific Islands Monthly, October 1958, p19
  3. France's fatedul decision soon Pacific Islands Monthly, September 1958, p19
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.