The new current constitutional amendments would achieve economic results of two sides: firstly universal, via fresh marketing for Egypt which was involved since 1990 in reforming its economic environment and secondly local, through adapting certain constitutional positions that do not match with Egypt's present economic situation.

Now, here are three dialogues with three economic experts: 1: former minister of economy, Dr. Mostafa al-Said, 2: man of industry and chairman of parliamentary committee, M. Abu el-Einain, 3: man of multi-business experience, Dr. I. Kamel.

*Since President Mubarak submitted his initiative for amending article # 76 of the constitution, there occurred wide political and democratic action in the Egyptian society. The question is: What definitely are the constitution articles related with economic positions that need to be amended?

Article (1) states that: "The Arab Republic of Egypt (ARE) is a state of socialist system." Article (4) states that " The economic basis of ARE is the socialist system". And also states that "People control over all tools of production". Article (30) states that the public sector leads progress in all fields …now we speak on a private sector to lead progress at a rate of 75% of investments."

Such are some articles that require amending.

Dr. M. al-Said: When 1971 constitution was set down the economic system was a socialist one and the political system was unilateral. Hence, the constitution, then, was based on one-sided idea without other notions being floated.

Dr. I. Kamel: The present constitution turned totally inexpressible of what we actually live in.

M. Abu El-Einain: I agree that it is necessary to amend some articles in the constitution as they stand against economic advancement. Our economy has turned liberal governed by "supply & demand law". No mind to have three forces in the Egyptian market i.e. the public, the private and the co-operative. The constitution, then, should be impartial not to be biased to one economic thought.

*What are the basic considerations and properties in the economic system that must be included in the constitution?

Dr. M. al-Said: To keep competition as an important idea and cooperatives that plays a significant role. We've to be aware here that the state's role under the liberal economic system is enhanced not decreased.

*(Article 115) states that People's Assembly is not authorized to change the budget without the government's approval!

M. Abu el-Einain: Such an article has to be amended while seeking to enlarge the parliament's role.

Dr. M. el-Said: Is it in the interest of the society to include in the constitution the parliament's right to amend the public budget even if the government does not approve that?

* You mean to set amendments without violating the accredited plan?

M. Abu El-Einain: Yes.

*What are other articles related to economy that require amendments?

Kamel: All articles from 23 up to 39 in addition to Article 12.

*Can social justice be achieved under the concept of market economy?

M. al-Said: Social responsibility of the capital is highly important for private property to enhance and develop. But in the Egyptian case what are the tools?

Al-Said: Volunteering and beneficial activities can play basic roles in this field.

By:Esam Ref'at
Al-Ahram Elaqtesady
January 17, 2007