Cairo — Flag-waving supporters and opponents of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi staged a final rally on Friday before a divisive referendum on a new constitution that the Islamist leader hopes will bring an end to weeks of political crisis and street clashes.

The draft has pitted Egypt's Islamists against the country's liberals, minorities such as Christians and a large sector of moderate Muslims. Liberal and secular activists charge that it opens the door to rights abuses and Islamist domination.

Pro-Morsi groups are lining main roads in Cairo, holding placards that say "Yes to the constitution". The opposition National Salvation Front has urged a "No" vote but so far stopped short of calling for a boycott.

At least two anti-constitution rallies are to take place in Cairo after Friday's main weekly Muslim prayers.