DHAKA: Polls are due to open in Egypt in the first round of long-delayed elections to choose a new parliament.

They will be the first such elections since the previous chamber was dissolved by a court ruling in 2012, reports the BBC.
 
The authorities say the poll is the final step in a transition to democracy.

However, critics say most candidates are supporters of President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi and the new parliament is likely to strengthen his control.

Polling stations are expected to open at 08:00 local time (06:00 GMT) and close from 19:00.

The election consists of two rounds of voting and results are not expected to be known until early December.

Voters will choose 596 MPs for the lower house, the House of Representatives.

Security will be tight across the country with at least 185,000 troops supporting police, Egyptian news agency Mena reported.

BDST: 0839 HRS, OCT 18, 2015
RS