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% of voters.[1] On 11 December Santa Anna ordered reprisal measures against those who had voted no; the ballot was not secret.[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]
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Should the current President of the Republic continue in the supreme command with the same broad powers as currently exercised? | |||||||||||||
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Background
editSanta 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
editShould 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 | |
| Total | 439,605 | 100.00 | |
| 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]