Tensions are high in Egypt as the country anxiously awaits the result of the presidential run-off vote, after it was delayed when both candidates claimed victory.

Supporters of the both candidates held rival rallies ahead of the announcement, which is due to be made later today.

The electoral commission overseeing the contest between Muslim Brotherhood candidate Mohamed Morsi and former prime minister Ahmed Shafiq said it would announce the official winner at 3:00 pm (13:00 GMT) on Sunday, according to AFP.

The commission’s secretary general Hatem Bagato said: ‘Faruk Sultan, the head of the presidential election commission, will announce the results of the presidential election run-off on Sunday at 3:00pm (13:00 GMT),’ in a statement on Sunday.

The commission has been considering appeals from both candidates after the Muslim Brotherhood’s candidate Mohammed Mursi and former prime minister Ahmed Shafiq both claimed victory.

The delay in the announcement of the result of the presidential run-off, initially scheduled for Thursday, has raised suspicions that the outcome of the election is being negotiated rather than counted, according to Al Jazeera.

As the ruling Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) and the Brotherhood clashed publicly over recent measures that consolidated the army’s power, sources say they have been engaged in talks privately, according to Al Jazeera.

Shortly after polls closed, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces announced a constitutional statement which grants the council legislative powers from the suspended parliament, control over the country’s budget and responsibility for drafting a new constitution. It also limited the new president of control over the army.

The election has divided the nation amongst those who fear a return to the old regime under Shafiq from others who want to keep religion out of politics and fear the Brotherhood would take away personal freedoms.