Egyptians Begin Voting On New Constitution

Voting on Egypt's new constitution is underway, the first ballot since the military ousted Preisdent Mohamed Morsi last year.

A yes vote is expected and the result could encourage a bid for the presidency by the head of the army, General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

Gen Sisi forced Mr Morsi, Egypt's first freely elected leader, from office in July following mass protests involving millions.

Islamist opponents view Gen Sisi as the man who caused violence and bloodshed unprecedented in the nation's modern history. At least 1,000 people, mostly Islamists, have been killed in clashes, with thousands imprisoned.

Supporters of Mr Morsi have called for a boycott of the poll, which is set to last for two days. They have been on the end of a brutal crackdown since the coup.

Backers of the interim government argue the referendum is the first of several votes which will restore elected rule by the end of the year.

In a speech on Sunday, Interim President Adly Mansour urged Egyptians to cast their ballots. He said: "I call on you to live up to the responsibility you owe to your nation and to ensure a better future for this country to go to your polling station and vote."

The aftermath of a bomb which exploded in Cairo on polling day

The capital Cairo has been filled with banners urging Egyptians to vote yes, with many featuring military motifs such as a general's hat, a reference to Gen Sisi.

Tensions in the country are high. Thousands of soldiers and police have been deployed to guard polling stations.

Rights lawyer Ragia Omran told the AFP news agency at least seven activists have been detained in the last week for distributing posters or leaflets critical of the new constitution. Most were released after a few days.

A bomb exploded outside a court in Cairo less than two hours before polling stations opened. A police general cited by AFP said it caused little damage and no injuries.

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