Jubilant Muslim Brotherhood supporters fill downtown Cairo.
Their presidential hopeful Mohamed Morsy announced his provisional victory early this morning after initial results were counted overnight.
In a speech, Morsy thanked supporters and promised to unite Egyptians under democratic rule.
(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE, MOHAMED MORSY, SAYING:
"I address myself to the people of Egypt, to all Egyptians, my loved ones, my kin, I address myself to them all without exception: With thanks, appreciation and gratitude, love and care to be, God willing, united towards a better future, towards freedom, towards democracy, towards development, and towards peace."
Egypt's regional neighbours were quick to sing his praises.
In Gaza City, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh congratulated Morsy at a special press conference.
Meanwhile in Lebanon, Sunni and Shi'ite Muslim clerics said they welcomed the Islamist leader and his plans to implement Sharia law.
But some Iraqis like this man worried that marrying religion and politics could be difficult and result in fewer personal freedoms.
Morsy's rival, former Prime Minister Ahmed Shafiq, contested the vote count shortly before Morsy spoke.
The official results are set to be published Thursday.
Jessica Gray, Reuters
