Source:
AJE19 Mar 2011 22:27
Millions cast their ballots in referendum but many argue constitutional amendments offer only limited reform.
Evan Hill Last Modified: 19 Mar 2011 22:27
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Many fear the Muslim Brotherhood and former ruling NDP will dominate a swift post-referendum election
Long lines, orderly queues and a mostly calm and jubilant atmosphere marked Egypt's first nationwide vote since a popular uprising forced Hosni Mubarak, Egypt's long-time president, to step down in February, leaving the country without a constitution and under the control of an unelected military council.
Observers reported an unprecedented turnout across the country, as thousands came out on Saturday to vote "yes" or "no" on a package of controversial constitutional amendments that may set the stage for parliamentary elections within months. The results are scheduled to be released on Sunday.
The country's most established political forces - Mubarak's National Democratic Party and the Muslim Brotherhood - are both pushing for approval, while most of the opposition parties and the youth movement want the amendments defeated.
Read more: http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2011/03/2011319203747704759.html