A referendum on the constitution of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland was held in Southern Rhodesia on 26 July 1961.[1] The British government had put forward a draft constitution on 13 June 1961. It provided for a parliamentary system, with a 65-seat parliament. There would be two voter rolls; 50 seats elected by the 'A' roll and 15 by the 'B' roll.[1] The constitution was approved by 65.79% of voters,[1] although those in Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland did not take part.
In protest against the lack of voting rights for black citizens, the National Democratic Party organised a parallel referendum which was held on 23 July.[2] Aimed mainly at the non-voting black population, over 99% voted against the proposed constitution.[2]
Results [edit]
Official referendum [edit]
| Choice |
Votes |
% |
| For |
42,004 |
65.79 |
| Against |
21,846 |
34.21 |
| Invalid/blank votes |
558 |
– |
| Total |
64,408 |
100 |
| Registered voters/turnout |
83,486 |
77.14 |
| Source: Direct Democracy |
Unofficial referendum [edit]
| Choice |
Votes |
% |
| For |
584 |
0.12 |
| Against |
467,189 |
99.88 |
| Total |
467,773 |
100 |
| Source: Direct Democracy |
References [edit]
