There has been growing concern in Cairo about a decree issued by President Mohamed Morsi that gives Egypt's armed forces powers of arrest and detainment during Saturday's constitutional referendum vote.

The decree, which lasts until the result of the referendum is announced, has reignited the issue of detainment of civilians in Egypt and their subjection to military trials. During the transitional period overseen by the military junta, some 12,000 civilians were tried and sentenced in military tribunals.

Amnesty International called the decree a "dangerous loophole" that could once again lead to detainment of civilians. Previously more than 120 protesters were killed and in excess of 12,000 civilians unfairly tried before military courts.

The constitutional referendum comes at a polarised time in Egyptian politics, after Morsi issued a decree granting himself extraordinary powers, which he partially rescinded on Saturday after protests. The opposition National Salvation Front (NSF) has rejected the referendum and called on Egyptians to stage peaceful protests on Tuesday .

From The Guardian