Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy

In the lead-up to Zanzibar’s July 2010 referendum, two political parties appeared together at a referendum festival, their joint message: “NDIYO, kwa Zanzibar tuitakayo”, Kiswahili for “Vote YES for a Zanzibar that we want”.

Yesterday, a large majority of the Kenyan people approved a new constitution through a referendum. Both the result and the peaceful conduct of the referendum present a great mandate for political reform in Kenya.

On 4 August, Kenyans go to the polls, facing a choice between 'Yes' or 'No' in answer to the question: "Do you approve the proposed constitution?" or in Swahili: "Je, unaikubali katiba mpya inayopendekezwa?"

On 28 September the people of Ecuador will decide upon a new Constitution with extensive political reforms. In August and September, an intensive campaign is expected.

Background article about the referendum in Bolivia (10 August 2008).