April 16, 2017 11:28 AM

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Turkey referendum: Historic vote on presidential powers under way

In Turkey, voting is underway in a landmark referendum that will determine whether President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be granted sweeping new powers. Mr Erdogan is seeking to replace Turkey's parliamentary system with an executive presidency.<br/><br/>Supporters say the move would streamline and modernise the country, but opponents fear it could lead to greater authoritarianism. A "yes" vote could also see Mr Erdogan remain in office until 2029. Some 55 million people are eligible to vote across 167,000 polling stations, with the results expected to be announced late today.<br/><br/>Mr Erdogan said the changes are needed to address the security challenges faced by Turkey, and to avoid the fragile coalition governments of the past.

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