2003 Qatari constitutional referendum

A referendum to approve a new constitution was held in Qatar on 29 April 2003. The constitution was overwhelmingly approved, with almost 98% in favour. The population of the country was estimated to be around 790,000 at the time of the referendum with only 85,000 registered voters. Voter turnout was 84.3%.[1] With the referendum's approval, it also created a legislative body of which two-thirds would be elected by universal suffrage, and one third appointed by the Emir. According to the new constitution, the legislature will have three powers: to approve (but not prepare) the national budget; to monitor the performance of ministers through no-confidence votes; and to draft, discuss, and vote on proposed legislation, which becomes law only with the vote of a two-thirds majority and the Emir's endorsement.

Results

Option	Votes	%
Yes	69,987	98.39
No	1,145	1.61
Invalid votes	274	–
Total	71,665	100
Source: IFES Election Guide

See also

• Constitution of Qatar

References

1. IFES Election Guide