Massive turnout in Cuba's constitution referendum

Cubans began voting on Sunday on a new constitution which proposes important reforms to the country's economic, political and social life.

Nearly six million of the eight million eligible Cubans had cast their ballots by the early afternoon at over 24,200 polling stations opened at 6 a.m. in more than 12,500 electoral districts.

The draft constitution was adopted by the Cuban parliament last December 22 after the public proposed over 7,000 amendments to the original document.

 

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An electoral official checks a voter's registration. /CGTN Photo

The government says those who vote yes are affirming their willingness to stay on the road to an improved socialist system with significant social, political and economic reforms such as the recognition of owning private property, the role of foreign investment and term limits on the presidential term of office.

"The new charter will have an impact on the country due to what it establishes and what it regulates, particularly in terms of the people's rights since the document defends the interests of the people," Tania Pedroso, a worker in the foreign trade sector, told CGTN.

The new constitution also leaves the door open to the approval of same-sex marriage, an issue that became controversial during discussion of the first draft, receiving both significant opposition and approval. The issue will be addressed by a new family code to be drawn up and submitted to a referendum in the near future.

 

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Tania Pedroso, a foreign trade worker, speaks with CGTN at a polling station. /CGTN Photo

The new constitution also establishes the positions of prime minister and provincial governors.  

Hundreds of thousands of Cubans have participated in the organizing and running of the vote, including schoolchildren who guard the ballot boxes at all polling stations.

On February 16 and 17, thousands of Cubans currently working abroad cast their ballots in nearly 130 countries. 

The results of the referendum will be released during a press conference by electoral authorities on Monday.