Mexican presidential referendum, 1854
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A referendum on whether Antonio López de Santa Anna should remain President., and if not, who should replace him, was held in Mexico on 1 December 1854.[1] The proposal was approved by 99.07% of voters.[1] On 11 December Santa Anna ordered reprisal measures against those who had voted no.[1] On 2 January 1855 he declared that the country had confirmed his position in office.[1] He was subsequently overthrown on 8 December that year.[1]
Background
Santa Anna took over as President for a year in 1853. On taking office on 20 April, he abolished the 1824 constitution and ruled as a dictator.[1] On 16 December he declared himself President for Life.[1] After the Plan of Ayutla was proclaimed in March 1854, aimed at reinstituting the 1824 constitution, a revolt started.[1] As it spread, the decision was made to hold a referendum.[1]
However, the press was only allowed to announce the referendum on the day it was held.[1] Voting was not secret and voters had to name and sign their ballots.[1]
Results
Should the current President of the Republic continue in the supreme command with the same broad powers as currently exercised?[1]
| Choice | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| For | 435,530 | 99.07 |
| Against | 4,075 | 0.93 |
| Invalid/blank votes | – | |
| Total | 439,605 | 100 |
| Registered voters/turnout | ||
| Source: Direct Democracy | ||
The second question was:
If he does not continue with the same broad powers as now vested, who shall immediately command?[1]
