It's voting day in Egypt.

Citizens are lining up to cast their ballots in a constitutional referendum.

The draft is expected to pass easily, with large support among many Egyptians.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) ALEXANDRIA RESIDENT, NABIL MATTA, SAYING:

"I came out because this constitution is the best constitution we have had and was done by professionals. First of all it respects human rights and freedom of religion. It's a civil constitution for a civil advanced state and this is what we were wishing for."

This is the first vote since the military-backed government took over in July when it overthrew Islamist Former President Mohamed Mursi.

Another voter said she would vote "yes" to help bring stability to Egypt.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) EGYPTIAN WOMAN, MALAKA MOHAMED, SAYING:

"Yes to the constitution and may God bring calm to the country. Many people have been lost, and may God bring us victory."

Security is on high alert throughout the coun