More than 25 million eligible Egyptians were called to cast their ballots Saturday in the final phase of a referendum on a new constitution. Voting was taking place in 17 electoral districts, according to a report of DPA. About 57 per cent of those who voted in the first round of the referendum, on December 15, approved the document, according to unofficial results. On Saturday, voters were again queuing up in large numbers outside polls, reported the state-run newspaper Al-Ahram online. Polling stations were due to close at 7 pm (1700 GMT). The final result is to be determined by the majority of the valid ballots cast in both rounds, according to the electoral commission. If the constitution is adopted, it will clear the way for legislative elections within 60 days. The 'Shura' Council, or upper house, will be given the authority to legislate until a new legislature is elected.
