- NEW: Polls close after two days of voting on a draft constitution
- Security forces arrest 125 people on second day of vote, first day marred by violence
- The draft constitution would put more power in the hands of the military
- Hundreds have died amid political turmoil in Egypt over the past three years
Cairo (CNN) — The legitimacy of Egypt’s military-backed government is being put to the test as the country voted on a new constitution after years of political turmoil and deadly violence.
The result of the referendum won’t be announced for another few days. But there’s little doubt it will be approved by a landslide, since opposition has largely been silenced through intimidation and arrests.
After two days of voting, polls closed at 9 p.m. (2 p.m. ET) Wednesday, state TV reported, showing images of clear plastic bins being sealed with zip-ties.
The question is whether the voter turnout will be high enough to bolster the government that took power after the military ousted former Muslim Brotherhood leader Mohamed Morsy from the presidency last year.
A strong participation would translate into support for Gen. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the military chief behind the coup and interim government.
If the draft constitution is passed, elections are expected to follow. Some predict el-Sisi will run for president.
Observers are watching to see if participation is above 33%. That’s the percentage of voters who turned out for the former Islamist-backed constitution.
Incoming Search Terms:
Egypt constitution vote tests military
constitution, Egypt, military, tests, vote
