Egyptians began casting their ballots Sunday in the first stage of elections for the Shura (Consultative) Council, reported state television. More than 2,600 candidates are vying for 90 seats up for grabs in the first-stage vote, held in 13 of Egypt's 27 governorates, according to the report quoted by DPA. Around 25 million Egyptians are eligible voters in the first stage, which will be conducted Sunday and Monday, said election officials. The second and final stage of the vote in the remaining governorates is set for February 14. The Shura Council is the upper house of Egypt's parliament and has limited powers. The council is composed of 270 members. Two thirds are directly elected, while the remaining third are appointed by the head of the state.
