Celebrations in Chile over vote to rip up the constitution

CELEBRATIONS in Chile over vote to rip up the dictatorship-era constitution

There have been jubilant scenes throughout Chile after 78 per cent voted ‘yes’ to rewriting the country’s dictatorship-era constitution on Sunday, October 25.

President Sebastián Piñera praised the peaceful vote, after violent scenes were witnessed at demonstrations during the week in Santiago.

Right-wing President Piñera agreed in November 2019 to hold the referendum as Chileans called for a reform of the old dictatorship-era constitution, which they argued entrenched inequalities by putting the private sector in control of health, education, housing and pensions.

The referendum, which was originally due to be held in April, was postponed to October due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Election officials said almost 7.5million Chileans turned out to cast their vote, the highest turn-out since the 1989 election which brought an end to military rule.

Jubilant Chileans took to the streets to celebrate. One of those celebrating told Reuters news agency that “we are giving birth to a new constitution and we are leaving behind the constitution of Pinochet and his entourage.”

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Sarah Keane

Former teacher and health services manager with a Degree in English, Sarah moved to Spain from Southern Ireland with her husband, who runs his own car rental business, in 2019. She is now enjoying a completely different pace and quality of life on the Costa Blanca South, with wonderful Spanish and expat friends in Cabo Roig. Sarah began working with Euro Weekly News in 2020 and loves nothing more than bringing all the latest national and international news to her local community.

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