26 Nov 2013

Constitutional referendum in Egypt now to be held in New Year

9:39 am on 26 November 2013

A referendum on an amended constitution in Egypt is likely to take place in January.

Interim prime minister Hazem Beblawi said on Monday the referendum would take place in the "second half of January" - later than expected.

A committee of 50 members began work in September on amending the constitution after President Mohammed Morsi was deposed by the Army on 3 July.

Parliamentary and presidential elections are expected to follow after the new constitution is passed.

The army originally the committee a deadline of 60 days to finish the draft.

The BBC reports supporters of Mr Morsi refuse to recognise the interim government and are expected to campaign against the referendum.