Preliminary results show supporters of Egypt’s constitution winning a solid majority (59%) in the first round of balloting held in 10 cities on Saturday. But the majority of voters in Cairo and Egypt’s biggest city, Alexandria, are opposed to the controversial document.

A polling site in Cairo on Saturday (Photo: nytimes)

According to the Supreme Electoral Commission, the official results will be announced after voters in 17 cities and provinces finish casting their ballots on Sunday.

The referendum has revealed a deep division in the Egyptian people. Supporters say the draft is a comprehensive “post-Mubarak” reform. The opposition is concerned that this constitution will give the Islamists more power and limit individual rights.