Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood says constitution passed

PanARMENIAN.Net - Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood claims that the disputed Islamist-backed constitution has passed with a 64 percent 'yes' vote after a two-round referendum, The Associated Press reported.

The unofficial results announced by the Islamist group Sunday, Dec 22, come a day before the election commission is expected to announce the final official tally for voting organized over two weeks.

According to the Brotherhood tally based on results from individual polling stations as well as voting abroad, around 64 percent of 16.6 million approved the constitution. Brotherhood totals have been accurate for earlier elections.

The local media has reported comparable results. The comparatively low turnout of 32 percent of eligible voters, as well as allegations by the opposition of voting violations, threatens to undermine the constitution's legitimacy and keep Egypt polarized.