Algerians cast their vote on revised constitution

Algerians were voting Sunday on whether to approve a revised constitution that offers more democracy, following the ousting of the country's long-serving, autocratic president last year.

Some 23.5 million Algerian voters are eligible to take part in the vote, though turnout is expected to be low.

Critics of the new constitution are calling for a boycott as they were barred from campaign venues or from expressing their views on public television or radio.

To help ease coronavorus concerns, voting stations were disinfected for the referendum, and voters were required to wear masks.

Initial results are expected after polls close Sunday night.

The referendum is taking place on the 68th anniversary of the beginning of Algeria's war for independence from France.

Pro-democracy activists say the revised charter doesn’t go far enough to open up politics to a new generation of leaders.

Islamist parties say it doesn't do enough to promote Islam and the Arabic language, and they oppose a measure on religious freedom.

For many Algerians, the most dramatic new measure is one allowing the Algerian military to intervene abroad, in U.N. or African Union peacekeeping operations, a major change from the current doctrine of non-interference.

(Image Credit: AP)