Samiksha Jaiswal (Editor)

Senegalese constitutional referendum, 2016

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Senegalese constitutional referendum, 2016

A constitutional referendum was held in Senegal on 20 March 2016. The proposed changes to the constitution were approved by 62% of voters. A majority voted in favour in thirteen of the fourteen regions, with only Diourbel Region seeing a majority against.

Background

A total of 15 changes were proposed to the constitution, including:

  • Shortening of the presidential term from seven years to five years. Contrary to incumbent president Macky Sall's wishes, this would only apply from the next presidential election in 2019 onwards.
  • Constitutional recognition for the Leader of the Opposition
  • Enhanced powers for local authorities
  • Rights to a healthy environment
  • Changes to rights on land ownership and natural resources

    • References

    Senegalese constitutional referendum, 2016 Wikipedia
    (Text) CC BY-SA