In a light-night session in Ankara, a majority of lawmakers voted in favor of the final article in the controversial package.

Turkey’s parliament moved a step closer late Sunday to approving a constitutional reform package that would pave the way for a presidential system.

In a light-night session in Ankara, a majority of lawmakers voted in favor of the final article in the controversial package presented by the ruling party.

Legislators have now approved all 18 articles in the reform package which would overhaul the constitution and boost the powers of the presidency. But a second and final round of voting is required to confirm the result. If the reform bill should secure at least 330 votes in the 550-seat assembly, it would then be put to a national referendum.

[vuukle]