Northern Rhodesian amalgamation referendum, 1922
A referendum on amalgamation with Southern Rhodesia was held in Northern Rhodesia in February 1922 alongside Advisory Council elections.[1] The proposal was rejected by 82% of voters, who were generally in favour of the territory becoming a Crown Colony with a Legislative Council.[1]
Campaign
Amalgamation was supported by Francis Chaplin, who was Administrator of both Northern and Southern Rhodesia.[2] Opponents included Leopold Moore, a prominent politician and Advisory Council member.[2]
Results
| Choice | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| For | 310 | 17.95 |
| Against | 1,417 | 82.05 |
| Invalid/blank votes | – | |
| Total | 1,727 | 100 |
| Registered voters/turnout | ||
| Source: Gelfand | ||
Aftermath
A referendum was held in Southern Rhodesia in October, with voters offered the choices of responsible government or union with South Africa, with 60% voting for the former. In July 1923 the Advisory Council officially requested that Northern Rhodesia be made a Crown Colony, and in early 1924 an Order in Council was issued by the British Government, stating that the territory would get a Governor and Legislative Council.[1] Herbert Stanley became the territory's first Governor on 1 April 1924,[1] and a Legislative Council was created in the same year. Its members were initially appointed, until the first elections were held in 1926.
