By Mai Shams El-Din
CAIRO: Voting for the constitutional amendments saw an unprecedented turnout for the first time in Ain Shams as voters waited in long queues in front of polling stations to cast their ballots.
“This is like Eid for all of us, you can see everyone smiling and not annoyed from waiting in this heat,” said Mona Moustafa, 22, voting in Al-Khansaa Primary School polling station. “I voted no because I want a new constitution, those amendments are like performing a plastic surgery for a very ugly face.”
While efforts to sway people to vote for yes or no were reported in many areas, but none were seen in polling stations in Ain Shams.
“I came here and voted yes because I want stability to come back to our country,” said Anissa Mohammed, 30. “We need a president to come quickly to restore security.”
Men and women of different age groups were keen on casting their votes, regardless of the long queues and the heat.
Margaret Nassar, 63, said she voted for the first time in her life, saying this is a “historical” day.
“I have never had this feeling before, to feel that my voice is heard.”
Loay Mostafa, activist observing the voting process in Palestine Preparatory School polling station confirmed that no violations were reported.
“Judges here are very cooperative, they allowed journalists and civil society organizations to enter and watch out for the voting process.”
