1971 Uruguayan referendum

A double referendum was held in Uruguay on 28 November 1971 alongside general elections.[1] Voters were asked whether they approved of two proposals; one to allow presidents to seek immediate re-election for a second term,[1] and one that would force the President to resign if any government ministers were found guilty of violating the law.[2] Both were rejected by voters.

Proposals

The proposal to allow Presidents to seek immediate re-election for a second term was put forward by the Battlista faction of the Colorado Party in the General Assembly. It had been inspired by the National Re-electionista Union supporting President Jorge Pacheco Areco.[1]

The proposal to force the President to resign if any government minister was found guilty of violating the law was put forward a popular initiative.[2]

Results

Immediate re-election

Choice	Votes	%
For	491,680	28.25
Against	1,248,439	71.75
Total	1,740,119	100
Registered voters/turnout	1,875,660	92.65
Source: Direct Democracy

Presidential resignation

Choice	Votes	%
For	1,870	0.10
Against	1,738,249	99.90
Total	1,740,119	100
Registered voters/turnout	1,875,660	92.65
Source: Direct Democracy

References

1. Uruguay, 28 November 1971: Immediate re-election of the President Direct Democracy (in German)
2. Uruguay, 28 November 1971: Resignation of the President Direct Democracy (in German)