Text of report by Iranian radio from Mashhad on 26th September

A referendum on making amendments and addenda to the
Tajikistan's constitution, aimed at making major changes to the
shape and essence of the political order in Tajikistan, was
held in this country today [26th September].

This referendum is considered to be the most major
political event in Tajikistan since the signing of the peace
agreement on 27th June 1997 [signed in Moscow by Tajik
President Emomali Rahmonov and the United Tajik Opposition
leader, Sayed Abdullo Nuri]. In the referendum, amendments to
articles and provisions of the constitution, in particular
setting up a bicameral parliament, ensuring a legal basis for
the activity of religious parties, enhancing the role of the
executive and the president as well as extending the
presidential term of office from five to seven years, were put
to nationwide vote.

Reports by our correspondents from Dushanbe [capital],
Khujand and Qurghonteppa speak of a high turnout by wide strata
of population in this referendum.

According to the latest reports received, the referendum
closed at 2000 [local time: 1500 gmt] and according to the
chairman of the Central Election and Referendum Commission of
Tajikistan, [Mirzoali Boltuyev], over 83 per cent of the
citizens with the right to vote cast their votes in the
referendum; the final results will be announced by tomorrow
afternoon [27th September].

Experts expect that the amendments and addenda to the
constitution will be supported by voters.

Source: Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mashhad, in
Persian 1600 gmt 26 Sep 99
BBC Mon CAU 260999/** VA/AS