Egypt military issues constitutional declaration

 

Xinhua, March 31, 2011

Egypt's military authorities announced on Wednesday a constitutional declaration which comprises 63 articles for the transitional period.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Major General Mamdouh Shahin said the declaration lays down the rules for presidential candidature, which were set forth in the constitutional amendments approved by a referendum held on March 19.

Amendments to nine constitution articles have been passed in a referendum on March 19 with the support rate of 77.2 percent.

He added that the presidential elections will be held under full judicial supervision, the president serves four years as a term and could be re-elected only once, and a vice president should be appointed within 60 days.

The articles in the declaration stipulate that no party can be formed on religious basis, although the state religion is Islam and the main source of legislation is from Islam principles.

The religious and expression freedom will be guaranteed, and the elected president will take over the power immediately from the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces after presidential elections, the general said.

He confirmed that the authority of the legislative Shura Council will be reduced.

According to Al Arabya TV, Egypt will hold presidential election in October or November after parliamentary election slated on September.

The military authorities suspended the Egyptian constitution and parliament on Feb. 13, two days after taking power from former President Hosni Mubarak who stepped down due to 18 days of protests against his 30-year rule.