Egypt to hold constitution referendum

Egypt to hold constitution referendum on Dec. 15

Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi said  the country’s new draft constitution will be put to a referendum on December 15th. President made the announcement on Saturday evening, one day after the constituent assembly rushed to approve the document.Morsi called on all Egyptians to take part in the referendum, whether or not they agree with the draft.

Morsi’s opponents, including liberals and secularists, are criticizing hasty approval of the draft constitution by the Islamist-dominated assembly.It is possible that the Constitutional Court could order the dissolution of the constituent assembly.

Supporters of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi have staged massive rallies across the country, amid mounting protests against his decision to expand presidential powers.

Tens of thousands of people gathered around Cairo University on Saturday. It was the largest turnout of Morsi supporters since he took office in June.

They responded to calls by the Muslim Brotherhood, which supports Morsi’s presidency.

Security forces were on alert for possible clashes between opponents and supporters of the president.

One supporter said it’s reasonable for the president to strengthen his power and unite the country in turmoil.
In the northern city of Alexandria, clashes between supporters and opponents have resulted in injuries.

Secular groups and youths are protesting Morsi’s decree last month to put his decisions beyond judicial challenge.

Opponents are also criticizing the hasty approval of a draft constitution on Friday, by the Islamist-dominated assembly.