Chile votes on proposed constitution to replace one imposed by military dictatorship 41 years ago

The current constitution favours the private sector over the state in aspects like education, pensions and healthcare

The new constitution would characterise Chile as a pluri-national state, establish autonomous indigenous territories

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Soldiers provide security at a polling station being set up ahead of Sunday’s referendum on whether to adopt a new constitution, in Santiago. Photo: AFP

Published: 5:01pm, 4 Sep 2022

Chileans are voting in a referendum on Sunday on whether to adopt a far-reaching new constitution that would fundamentally change the South American country.

The proposed charter is intended to replace a constitution imposed by a military dictatorship 41 years ago.

For months, opinion polls have shown a clear advantage for the rejection camp, but the difference has been narrowing, giving hope to the charter’s supporters that they can pull a victory.

“We are clearly in a situation in which the result will be close,” said Marta Lagos, head of MORI, a local pollster. “The Chilean is a political animal who decides at the last minute.”

The outcome will have a resounding impact on President Gabriel Boric, 36, who has been one of the main proponents of the new constitution. Analysts say voters also likely view the vote as a referendum on Chile’s youngest-ever president, whose popularity has plunged since taking office in March.

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