1961 Rwandan monarchy referendum

---

25 September 1961

---

Do you want to keep the institution of the Mwami (monarchy) in Rwanda?

For   20.15% Against   79.85%

If so, do you want Kigeli V to remain Mwami (King) of Rwanda?

For   20.40% Against   79.60%

Politics of Rwanda
Constitution Human rights International Criminal Tribunal
Government President Paul Kagame Prime Minister Édouard Ngirente Cabinet
Parliament Senate President: Bernard Makuza Chamber of Deputies Speaker: Donatille Mukabalisa
Judiciary Supreme Court
Administrative divisions Provinces Districts
Elections Recent elections President: 2017 2024 Assembly: 2018 2024 Senate: 2011 2019 Political parties
Foreign relations Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Ministry: Richard Sezibera Diplomatic missions of / in Rwanda Passport Visa requirements Visa policy
United Nations in Rwanda UNOMUR UNAMIR UNREO
v t e

A referendum on the monarchy was held in Rwanda on 25 September 1961, concurrent with parliamentary elections. The referendum asked two questions: whether the monarchy should be retained after independence the following year, and whether the incumbent, Kigeli V, should remain King.

The result was a "no" to both questions from 80% of voters, with a 95% turnout.^[1] King Kigeli claimed the vote had been rigged.^[2]

Results

Question one

Should the Monarchy in Rwanda be preserved?

Choice	Votes	%
For	253,963	20.15
Against	1,006,339	79.85
Invalid/blank votes	14,329	–
Total	1,274,631	100
Registered voters/turnout	1,337,342	95.31
Source: African Elections Database

Question two

Should Kigeli V remain King of Rwanda?

Choice	Votes	%
For	257,510	20.40
Against	1,004,655	79.60
Invalid/blank votes	11,526	–
Total	1,273,691	100
Registered voters/turnout	1,337,342	95.24
Source: African Elections Database

References