A constitutional referendum was held in Tuvalu on 30 April 2008., Tuvalu News, April 30, 2008 The referendum sought to abolish the monarchy of Tuvalu and establish the country as a republic. Had the referendum passed, the new president would have been indirectly elected by the Parliament of Tuvalu.
The referendum failed, with 679 votes in favour of establishing a republic and 1,260 votes to retain the monarchy."Tuvalu votes to maintain monarchy", Radio Australia, 17 June 2008 As a consequence, Tuvalu remained a monarchy, and Elizabeth II remained head of state. Turnout for the referendum was low. Only 1,939 voters cast valid ballots, out of the approximately 9,000 voting-aged Tuvaluans. In comparison, 8,501 votes were cast in the 2006 parliamentary election.
Results ChoiceVotes%Monarchy1,26064.98Republic67935.02Invalid/blank votes -Total1,939100Registered voters/turnout 9,000c. 21.5Source: Radio Australia
See also 1999 Australian republic referendum 2009 Vincentian constitutional referendum
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