Turkey referendum: Erdogan wins

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says he won by a clear majority after claiming victory in the referendum on granting him sweeping new powers. He was speaking in Istanbul as the count neared completion. With more than 99% of ballots counted, “Yes” was on 51.35% and “No” was on 48.65%.

Erdogan supporters say replacing the parliamentary system with an executive presidency will modernise the country.

The “Yes” vote could also see Mr Erdogan remain in office until 2029.

Reporters also said that three people were shot dead near a polling station during the voting in the south-eastern province of Diyarbakir.

Following the victory, the opposition is complaining of massive irregularities with the voting, suggesting the state news agency manipulated results and vowing to challenge them with the supreme election board.