Chileans reject constitution that would replace one from dictatorship era

(Patria) - Chileans have rejected a new conservative constitution that would replace the current text dating from the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet, Reuters reported. With 90.16% of ballot boxes counted, a total of 55.68% of Chileans rejected the new text, while 44.32% voted in favor.

This is the second draft constitution in as many years that voters have rejected to replace the current text, a process that arose after large, passionate and sometimes violent protests against inequality that swept the nation in 2019.

The first assembly elected to draft a new text was dominated by left-wing forces, and the draft focused on social, indigenous, environmental and gender rights. But voters overwhelmingly rejected that text last September.

The electorate shifted to the right for the second draft, and voters elected an assembly dominated by conservative parties. That text was considered more conservative and market-oriented than the 1980 constitution. It placed private property rights and strict rules on immigration and abortion at its core.

Polls suggested the new text would likely be rejected, but the race tightened in recent weeks. The rejection of the conservative text can be seen as a victory for leftist President Gabriel Boric. Boric said on Sunday that his government would continue to work for the people regardless of the outcome.

"Regardless of the results, our Government will continue to clearly focus on the priorities of the people," he said. Boric says he will not advocate for a third writing of the constitution.