Chad counts votes in controversial referendum

Vote counting is underway in Chad after polls closed on Sunday in a controversial referendum on a new constitution.

Chadian authorities told the BBC that the voter turnout was "satisfactory" but reports suggest that there was a lack of enthusiasm among voters.

The vote is an important step in the transition to constitutional rule next year but it has been widely seen as an attempt by the military-led government to consolidate power.

It comes after more than a year of brutal crackdowns against pro-democracy protesters.

Some opposition parties and civil society organisations had called for a boycott of the referendum, citing a lack of transparency and fairness in the process.

Provisional results are expected to be announced on 24 December, with the Supreme Court due to validate them four days later.

The proposals are widely expected to be adopted, paving the way for general elections late next year.