The current debate over the constitutional amendments among the political parties and civil society institutions expresses the political dynamics seen on the Egyptian arena which suffered from freeze for many years. Since President Mubarak proposed amending 34 articles, the current debate expresses a new thought despite some reservations here and there over amending some articles. The step would help fix the pillars of justice and secure equal opportunities among all citizens.

The proposed amendment of Article 1 stipulates that all citizens are equal without discrimination due to sex, race or religion. Yet, some attempt to mix the first article with the second one which stipulates that Islam is the religion of the State and that Islamic jurisprudence is the principal source of legislation. In fact, there is no contradiction between these two articles and the proposed amendment of Article 5 which would ban the establishment of any faith-based party.

Regardless of this debate, all agree on the freedom of the economic system plus annulling all social related articles from the Constitution. This opens the door before choosing the suitable economic policy in light of the circumstances without a constitutional stipulation defining a specific economic system. Concerning Article 179, the objective of the amendment is to issue a terror combat law as a preventive measure to prevent its crimes before it takes place.

The proposed amendment will never give the authorities any immunity should they harm the citizen. On the contrary, it would be the right of the citizen to refer the matter to the judiciary should there be any assault on his rights. No doubt, a general agreement is required to place the interest of the citizen above all conflicts given that the goal is to maintain the homeland's stability and security and realize the social justice.

Abdullah Nassar
Al Gomhuria
17/3/2007