Chile voters reject conservative constitution in second referendum

People queue to vote during a referendum on a new Chilean constitution, in Temuco, Chile, December 17, 2023. © Juan Gonzalez, Reuters
 

With 99 percent of the referendum ballots counted, the "against" option prevailed with 55.75 percent of the vote, compared to 44.25 percent in favor, according to Servel, just hours after voting ended around 6 pm (2100 GMT).

The latest version of a new proposed constitution was overseen by the far-right opposition Republican Party after voters roundly rejected a progressive draft in September 2022 that attempted to enshrine environmental protections and the right to elective abortion.

Leftist President Gabriel Boric said last month that it would be his last attempt to reform the constitution, in order to focus on stability and long-term development. His government had adopted a neutral position on the new draft.

"Today we are experiencing a new... day that, no matter the result, strengthens our democracy," Boric said after voting in his hometown of Punta Arenas.

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