Egypt referendum extending El-Sisi rule to 2030 passes with 88% of vote

The Egyptian election commission says voters have approved amendments allowing President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to stay in power until 2030. (AFP)

• Turnout was 44.33% of eligible voters
• Pro-government media, business people and lawmakers had pushed for a "Yes" vote

CAIRO: Egypt's election commission says voters have approved constitutional amendments allowing President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to remain in power until 2030.

Lasheen Ibrahim, the head of the commission, said on Tuesday the amendments were approved with 88.83% voting in favor. The turnout was 44.33% of eligible voters. The nationwide referendum took place over three days, from Saturday through to Monday to maximize turnout.

Pro-government media, business people and lawmakers had pushed for a "Yes" vote and a high turnout by offering incentives.

More to follow...