The Egyptian authorities have increased security measures across the country ahead of a referendum on constitution changes which will take place from Saturday to Monday.
The interior ministry said it is adopting an extensive plan to "maintain security and order…and protect and secure citizens" during the vote.
Rapid deployment and intervention forces and security checkpoints will be deployed in main roads and around state institutions, polling stations and vital areas across the country, to deal with any attempt to "disturb peace and security," the ministry said in a statement on Thursday.
Egyptians will cast their vote for or against a group of constitution amendments that include an extension to President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi's term, potentially allowing him to remain in office until 2030.
The amendments also give the president new authorities to appoint members of the judiciary and create a second house of parliament, the Senate, with one-third of its members to be appointed by the president.
They also give the military the role of "safeguarding the constitution and democracy and the fundamental makeup of the country and its civil nature."
Egyptians abroad will be able to vote at Egyptian embassies and consulates around the world from Friday to Sunday.
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