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BANGUI, Central African Republic (AP) — Central African Republic's National Election Authority says final results show citizens have voted yes on a constitutional referendum meant to bring stability to a nation wracked by years of sectarian violence.
Election official Marie-Madeleine N'Kouet Hoornaert said that 93 percent of voters approved the referendum, while 7 percent voted against it according to final results published Monday. Hoornaert said participation was about 38 percent.
The Dec. 13 referendum vote was seen as a test for much-delayed national elections taking place Dec. 27. Violence that killed five and threats of attacks delayed the vote in some areas.
The referendum creates a senate, allows freedom of worship and prohibits religious fundamentalism. The referendum also says perpetrators of coups cannot hold public office. Central African Republic has been highly volatile since early 2013.
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