2002 Saint Helena referendum

A referendum on building a new airfield or replacing RMS St Helena was held in Saint Helena between 21 January and 1 February 2002.[1] Around 72% voted in favour of the airport, although critics claimed that the referendum was slanted in favour of this option.[2]

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Background

RMS St Helena was the island's only connection with the outside world, but required replacing at an estimated cost of £26 million. The cost of the alternative option of a new airport was estimated at £50 million. The island's Executive Council initially rejected holding a referendum, but agreed to do so on 8 January 2002.[1]

All Saint Helena citizens aged over 16 and based in Saint Helena, Ascension Island, the Falkland Islands and on board RMS St Helena were eligible to vote.[1] Voters were given the options:

  • I WOULD LIKE to have an airport on St Helena, with alternative arrangements being made for shipping.
  • I WOULD NOT LIKE to have an airport but would like to have a replacement RMS St Helena.

Results
Choice Votes %
Airport1,57771.58
New ship62628.42
Invalid/blank votes13–
Total2,216100
Registered voters/turnout4,47349.54
Source: Direct Democracy

References
  1. St. Helena, 1 February 2002: Airport or new ship Direct Democracy (in German)
  2. Saint Helena: Mixed reactions over airport plans BBC News, 16 August 2002
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