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Egyptian voters have overwhelmingly approved the country's new constitution in the referendum held Tuesday and Wednesday, the election commission reported yesterday.Some 97.6 per cent of those taking part voted in favour, ensuring the adoption of the charter, drafted by a committee representing a range of opinion.
The new constitution has dropped provisions seen as providing a basis for the "Islamisation" of Egypt and contains a well-defined bill of rights granting gender and religious equality. However, the document retains controversial clauses granting the military the right to appoint the defence minister, maintain budgetary independence, and try civilians in military courts for attacks on military installations or personnel.
More: Egyptian Voters Approve New Constitution - the Irish Times - Fri, Jan 17, 2014