Egypt Referendum Results: Voters approve constitutional amendments

World
Europe

01:56

In Egypt- voters have approved a bundle of constitutional amendments that could see the president stay in power until 20-30. But this comes amid vote-buying claims. In addition Human Rights Watch is saying the referendum was held in an 'unfair' environment. CGTN's Adel El Mahrouky has more from Cairo.

A sweeping 88.8% has brought victory for the Yes voters in Egypt's referendum. The turnout however was not stunning, only 44.3% of Egyptians had their say in the vote.

LASHEEN IBRAHIM, PRESIDENT EGYPTIAN ELECTIONS AUTHORITY "Great People of Egypt, from now onwards you'll have a parliament of two chambers, one is the house of representatives and the other is a senate. Women have a minimum of quarter of the parliament seats. From today presidential terms have become six years. You now have a constitution with new features, congratulations."

The constitutional amendments will see the formation of a high judicial council headed by the Egyptian President.

It also makes the Egyptian Military the guardian of the civil state, and prohibits a President from appointing a defense minister without the Supreme council of the Armed Forces' approval.

IBRAHIM YOUNIS VOTER "I respect both the yes and no voters. Personally, I voted Yes, because I felt that it's important to bring back the representation of farmers and laborers in the parliament. In addition to the minimum women's quota. Stability in the leadership is good, with quick change people with different ideas will come, and no plan for the country will be complete."

ADEL EL MAHROUKY CAIRO, EGYPT "The constitution's amendments take place effective immediately. 24 Million Egyptians believe these changes will bring stability and renaissance to the country. Adel EL Mahrouky, CGTN, CA."